Dr. Doyin Abiola, renowned journalist and former Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of National Concord, and wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, has died at 82.
Her death was confirmed on Wednesday by Jamiu Abiola, one of the sons of the late Chief MKO Abiola to PUNCH.
Widely regarded as a groundbreaking figure in Nigerian media, Dr. Abiola made history as the first Nigerian woman to be appointed Editor-in-Chief of a national daily newspaper. Her journalistic career, which spanned more than three decades, was marked by remarkable achievements, unwavering integrity, and a fierce commitment to social justice and gender equality.
Born in 1943, Doyin Abiola earned a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. She began her journalism journey at the Daily Sketch, where her popular column, Tiro, focused on gender issues and matters of public interest. Her writing quickly distinguished her as a voice for progressive thinking and reform.
In 1970, she left for the United States to pursue further studies. There, she obtained a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979. Upon her return to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer, where she steadily rose through the ranks to become Group Features Editor.
Despite being offered the position of “Woman Editor” – a title she believed limited her professional scope – she declined, opting instead to prove her capabilities on equal footing with her male counterparts. That decision shaped her reputation as a journalist who insisted on merit over gender bias.
Her career continued its upward trajectory when she was appointed to the editorial board of Daily Times, working alongside prominent media icons such as Dele Giwa, Stanley Macebuh, and Amma Ogan. She would later go on to make history as the pioneer daily editor of National Concord.
In 1986, Dr. Abiola was appointed Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of the Concord Group, making her one of the most influential figures in Nigerian journalism at the time. Under her stewardship, the media group flourished, growing to include up to 14 publications – both newspapers and magazines – that played critical roles in shaping public opinion and national dialogue.
Her leadership was tested during Nigeria’s turbulent military era. Under the regime of General Sani Abacha, the Concord premises were raided by soldiers and its printing presses destroyed.
The newspaper was subsequently proscribed for 18 months. Despite the threats and persecution, Dr. Abiola remained resolute in her commitment to press freedom and ethical journalism. In a 2001 interview, she reflected on that period, stating that she never wavered in her dedication to truth and justice.
Beyond the newsroom, Dr. Abiola contributed significantly to the development of the media profession in Nigeria. She chaired the Awards Nominating Panel for the inaugural Nigerian Media Merit Award and served on the Advisory Council of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences at Ogun State University.
Her contributions were recognized both nationally and internationally. In 1986, she was named an Eisenhower Fellow. She was later honoured with the prestigious Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming only the second woman to receive the accolade. Additionally, she served as Chairperson of the CNN African Journalist of the Year Awards, further cementing her status as a mentor and icon in African journalism.
Dr. Doyin Abiola was also known for her personal strength and resilience. She was one of the wives of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. She remained supportive of him throughout the years of political turmoil, standing firmly by his side during his prolonged incarceration and the national crisis that ensued.
Details regarding her funeral arrangements are expected to be released by the family in due course.