First female editor in Nigeria dies at 82

Dr. Doyin Abiola, a distinguished journalist and former Managing Director of National Concord, has passed away at the age of 82.

She died at 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, following a period of illness, as reported by family sources.

A trailblazer in Nigerian journalism, Dr. Abiola was the first Nigerian woman to serve as editor and subsequently as managing director/editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper. Her tenure at National Concord extended over three decades, during which she significantly influenced media discourse and mentored a generation of journalists.

Born in 1943, Dr. Abiola received a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She began her journalism career at the Daily Sketch, where she authored a widely read column titled “Tiro,” focusing on issues of public relevance, particularly gender equity.

In 1970, she relocated to the United States to pursue a Master’s degree in Journalism. Upon her return to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and advanced to the position of Group Features Editor. In 1979, she earned a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University.

Following her return to Nigeria, Dr. Abiola served on the editorial board of the Daily Times alongside esteemed journalists including Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan. In 1980, she became the inaugural editor of the newly established National Concord, ultimately ascending to the role of Managing Director in 1986.

In 1981, she married Chief MKO Abiola and remained a stalwart presence during his political challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the annulment of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Dr. Abiola also made substantial contributions to the media industry through various roles. She chaired the nomination panel for the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) and served on the advisory council of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences at Ogun State University.

Her contributions to journalism were recognized with numerous awards, including the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, making her the second woman to receive this honor, after Mrs. Omobola Onajide. She was also a recipient of the esteemed Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986.

Dr. Doyin Abiola leaves behind a remarkable legacy characterized by courage, professionalism, and excellence in journalism.