Dr. Doyin Abiola, an influential force in Nigerian journalism and wife of the late MKO Abiola, has died at the age of 82 following a period of illness – www.naijnaira.com reports.
She passed on Tuesday evening, around 9:15 p.m., according to family sources quoted by The Guardian.
Over her decades-long career, Doyin Abiola carved out a reputation as a pioneering editor, respected media executive, and voice of reason during turbulent political seasons.
She began her journey in journalism at the Daily Sketch, gaining attention for her bold commentary column Tiro, which often tackled gender-related issues with clarity and conviction.
Her academic path led her to the University of Ibadan for her first degree, followed by a Master’s in Journalism in the U.S., and then a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from NYU in 1979.
Back in Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times, where she became Group Features Editor and later served on its editorial board with noted journalists like Dele Giwa and Stanley Macebuh.
In 1980, she took the reins at National Concord as its first editor and eventually became Managing Director in 1986, becoming the first Nigerian woman to lead a national daily.
She married Chief MKO Abiola in 1981, staying fiercely supportive through his political battles, especially after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
Doyin also held leadership roles in several media institutions, including chairing the nomination panel for the Nigerian Media Merit Award and serving on Ogun State University’s advisory council.
“She was a pillar of professionalism and strength,” one longtime colleague said of her contributions.
Her accolades included the Eisenhower Fellowship and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Diamond Award for Media Excellence, making her only the second woman to receive it.
Dr. Doyin Abiola leaves behind a legacy that transformed Nigeria’s media industry and opened doors for generations of women journalists.
Article updated 2 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
