President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr Doyin Abiola, a legendary figure in Nigerian journalism and widow of the late Chief MKO Abiola. She died on Tuesday night at the age of 82.
In a personally signed condolence message, President Tinubu described her as an icon of journalism, a trailblazer for women, and a champion of democracy.
“She broke the gender barrier, becoming the first woman to edit a national newspaper and the first managing director of a daily newspaper,” the President said.
He praised Dr Abiola’s immense contributions to journalism and gender equity, noting that she laid the groundwork for future generations of women in leadership and public service.
“Her impact on our democracy was even more profound. Doyin embodied integrity, tenacity, hard work, commitment to excellence, and dedication to public good and democratic good governance,” Tinubu stated.
The President commiserated with the Abiola and Aboaba families, her daughter Doyinsola, and the governments and people of Lagos and Ogun States.
“Nigerians will never forget Doyin Abiola’s leadership during her illustrious journalism career, her championing of women’s empowerment, and her commitment to democracy,” he said.
“May her soul rest in peace. May this nation be blessed with more women of Doyin Abiola’s calibre and pedigree.”
Dr Doyin Abiola began her groundbreaking media journey in 1980 as the pioneer Editor of National Concord, a newspaper owned by her late husband. She later rose to become Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of all Concord titles, including the Weekend Concord, which she founded to highlight human-interest reporting.
Her career spanned three decades, during which she held various influential roles in Nigeria’s media landscape. In recognition of her contributions, she was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME) for promoting democracy and knowledge in media.
