Dr. Doyin Abiola, Renowned Journalist and Wife of MKO Abiola, Dies at 82

Dr. Doyin Abiola, a pioneer in Nigerian journalism and wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, has died at the age of 82. According to family sources, she passed away peacefully at around 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5.

A trailblazer in the media industry, Dr. Abiola holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian woman to serve as Editor of a national daily newspaper, as well as the first female Managing Director and Publisher of the National Concord.

Her journalism journey began in 1969 with the Daily Sketch, where she wrote a widely read column titled Tiro, focusing on social issues and gender advocacy. In 1970, she moved to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in Journalism.

Upon returning to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and rose through the ranks to become Group Features Editor.

She later went back to the U.S. to earn a PhD in Communications and Political Science in 1979.

After completing her doctorate, she resumed work at the Daily Times, serving on the editorial board alongside distinguished journalists such as Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan.

Shortly after, she was appointed the pioneer editor of the National Concord daily newspaper.

In 1986, she made history again by becoming the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of National Concord, marking a significant milestone for women in Nigerian media.

Her leadership and contributions to the industry spanned over three decades.

Dr. Abiola married MKO Abiola in 1981 and continued to serve in various influential roles in journalism throughout her life.

May her kind soul rest peacefully.