Dr. Doyin Abiola, a trailblazing figure in Nigerian journalism and the widow of late business mogul and politician Chief MKO Abiola, has passed away at the age of 82. Family sources confirmed that she died on Tuesday night at 9:15 p.m. after a brief illness, bringing to a close a remarkable life dedicated to the advancement of journalism and media excellence in Nigeria.

A woman of many firsts, Dr. Abiola carved her name in history as the first Nigerian woman to become the editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a national newspaper—National Concord. Her influence in the industry spanned over three decades, during which she played a vital role in shaping the Nigerian media landscape and mentoring numerous journalists who have gone on to make their own mark.

Born in 1943, Dr. Abiola earned her bachelor’s degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She began her career at the Daily Sketch, where she became known for her popular column Tiro, which tackled social and gender-related issues. In 1970, she traveled to the United States for further studies and completed a master’s degree in Journalism, later earning a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.

After returning to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times, rising through the ranks to become Group Features Editor and serving on its editorial board alongside prominent journalists like Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan. In 1980, she became the first editor of the newly launched National Concord, and by 1986, she was appointed its Managing Director.

She married Chief MKO Abiola in 1981 and remained a steadfast supporter through his political journey, especially during the crisis following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. Beyond the newsroom, Dr. Abiola contributed to journalism through roles such as chairing the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) nomination panel and serving on Ogun State University’s advisory council.

Her numerous accolades include the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship (1986) and the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award—an honor previously awarded to only one other woman, Mrs. Omobola Onajide.

Dr. Doyin Abiola is remembered for her fearless pursuit of journalistic integrity, her dedication to truth, and her commitment to empowering others in the field. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations of media professionals.