Trailblazing Journalist Doyin Abiola, Widow of MKO, Dies at 82
Dr. Doyinsola Abiola, a pioneering Nigerian journalist and widow of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, has passed away.
She died at 9:15pm on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 82, according to unfiltered reporting news
Dr. Abiola was a trailblazer in Nigeria’s media industry, making history as the first woman to serve as Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of a national newspaper the National Concord. Known for her intellect, tenacity, and fearless voice, she built a distinguished career that spanned decades and helped shape modern journalism in Nigeria.
She began her journalism career in 1969 at the Daily Sketch, where her widely read column “Tiro” boldly addressed pressing societal issues, including gender equality, at a time when such topics were rarely explored. In 1970, she left Nigeria for the United States to further her education, earning a master’s degree in journalism.
Dr. Abiola earned a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York in 1979. Back in Nigeria, she returned to the Daily Times and became a member of its editorial board, working alongside renowned figures such as Dele Giwa, Stanley Macebuh, and Amma Ogan.
Her defining professional chapter came with the National Concord, the newspaper owned by her future husband, MKO Abiola. She was appointed its first daily editor and, in 1986, rose to the position of Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief a groundbreaking achievement for women in African media.
Dr. Doyin Abiola married MKO Abiola in 1981 and stood resolutely by his side during the tumultuous years that followed his historic but annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election victory. Despite the political turbulence and personal sacrifices, she remained a steadfast figure in both the media and democratic struggle.
Her legacy as a journalist, editor, and advocate for press freedom and women’s rights remains deeply etched in Nigeria’s history.
She is survived by her children, family, and a legion of journalists and admirers who were inspired by her leadership and courage.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
