Dr Doyin Abiola, widow of the late politician and winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO), has died at the age of 82.
According to family sources, she died on Tuesday, 5th August 2025 at 9:15 pm following a period of illness.
A pioneer in Nigerian journalism, Dr. Abiola made history as the first Nigerian woman to become Editor and later Managing Director/Editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper.
Doyin’s tenure at National Concord spanned more than three decades, which saw her helping to shape media discourse and mentoring a generation of journalists.
Born in 1943, she obtained a degree in English and Drama from the University of Ibadan in 1969. Her journalism career began at the Daily Sketch, where she penned a widely read column titled Tiro, addressing issues of public concern, particularly gender equity.
In 1970, she left Nigeria to pursue a Master’s degree in Journalism in the United States. Upon her return, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and rose to become Group Features Editor. She later earned a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.
On her return to Nigeria, Dr Doyin served on the Daily Times Editorial Board alongside respected journalists such as Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan. In 1980, she became the pioneer Editor of the newly launched National Concord, eventually rising to Managing Director in 1986.
She married Chief MKO Abiola in 1981 and remained a steadfast presence during his political trials, particularly after the annulment of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Doyin’s contributions to the media industry include heading the nomination panel for the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) as well as serving on the Advisory Council of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences at Ogun State University.
Her contributions earned her numerous accolades, including the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, making her the second woman to receive the honour after Mrs Omobola Onajide.
A recipient of the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986, she is leaving behind a legacy of courage, professionalism, and excellence in journalism.
