A Tribute to a Trailblazer: Dr. Doyin Abiola (1943-2025)
The Nigerian media landscape is mourning the loss of Dr. Doyin Abiola, a veteran journalist and a pioneering figure who passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 82. According to family sources, she died at 9:15 p.m. after a period of illness.
A Pioneer in Nigerian Journalism:
First Female Editor: Dr. Doyin Abiola (née Aboaba) was a celebrated and barrier-breaking figure in the media industry. She holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian woman to be appointed editor of a national daily newspaper.
National Concord: She began her landmark career at the National Concord as a daily editor before ascending to the position of Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief in 1986. This made her one of the most powerful and influential women in Nigerian media at the time. Under her leadership, the Concord Group expanded significantly, publishing up to 14 newspapers and magazines.
Early Career: Her journalism journey began in 1969 at the Daily Sketch, where her popular column, "Tiro," addressed public and gender issues. She also worked at the Daily Times, where she served as a Features Writer and later as Group Features Editor.
Education and Enduring Legacy:
Dr. Abiola was a highly educated professional, holding a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan. She furthered her education in the United States, earning a master's degree in journalism and a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.
She was the widow of the late business mogul and winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, whom she married in 1981. Throughout the political turmoil that followed the annulment of the election and her husband's imprisonment and death, she remained a steadfast figure.
Her legacy is defined by her trailblazing achievements and her dedication to mentoring a new generation of journalists. She chaired prestigious boards, including the CNN African Journalist of the Year Awards, and was a recipient of the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) for her lifetime contributions. She was also the first Nigerian woman to be selected for the Eisenhower Fellowship.
Dr. Abiola's death marks the end of an era for Nigerian journalism. She will be remembered as a fearless and dedicated professional who paved the way for many women in the industry and left an indelible mark on the nation's media landscape.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
