Dr Doyin Abiola death has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s media industry. The pioneering Concord Editor-in-Chief died peacefully at 82. Her bold leadership, spanning decades, made her a towering figure in journalism and democracy

Dr Doyin Abiola death has sent a wave of shock and mourning across Nigeria’s journalism and political landscapes, following the passing of the revered Concord Newspaper pioneer. The trailblazing journalist died peacefully at 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday after a brief illness. She was 82.

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Dr Abiola, the first Nigerian woman to become Editor and later Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of a national daily, was a powerful force in shaping public discourse and pushing boundaries for women in journalism. Her legacy is inseparable from the story of Concord Newspapers, the platform founded by her late husband, Chief MKO Abiola, acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Born in 1943, she studied English and Drama at the University of Ibadan and began her career with the Daily Sketch where her column Tiro tackled social injustice and gender issues. Her pursuit of excellence took her to the United States in 1970 where she earned a Master’s in Journalism and later, a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University.

Returning home, Dr Abiola joined Daily Times, rose swiftly through the ranks, and later joined the National Concord as its pioneer daily editor. In 1986, she broke a historic barrier by becoming its Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief—the first Nigerian woman to hold such a position in the nation’s newspaper history.

Her stewardship of the Concord titles spanned turbulent political years, including the stormy period following the annulment of the June 12 election. Yet, she remained committed to upholding journalistic integrity and expanding the civic space through fearless reporting and editorial direction.

Dr Abiola was also deeply invested in the media community’s growth. She chaired the Awards Nominating Panel of the Nigerian Media Merit Award and served as a member of the Advisory Council at Ogun State University. Her outstanding contribution earned her the DAME Lifetime Achievement Award and the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986—global recognition for her impact on journalism.

Her passing is not just the end of a remarkable life but the closing chapter of a living institution. In the words of many close to her, Dr Doyin Abiola was more than a journalist; she was a standard bearer of courage, leadership, and vision.

Confirming the passing, family sources expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers. They noted: “She lived with dignity, led with courage, and leaves behind a legacy that will long outlive the pain of her absence.”

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As Nigeria mourns this media icon and patriot, Dr Doyin Abiola’s name remains etched in history—not merely for breaking the glass ceiling but for building the very newsroom that gave generations of journalists a voice.

Her final story is one of victory, and her pen rests in honour.