Dr. Doyin Abiola was a trailblazing figure in Nigerian journalism, breaking new ground as the first woman to edit and lead a national daily newspaper, serving as Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of National Concord.
Her remarkable career shattered gender barriers and left an enduring legacy in the media industry.
Spanning over three decades, her work championed democratic ideals, challenged societal norms, and inspired generations of journalists.
Through her bold leadership and fearless voice, she transformed Nigerian media and mentored countless professionals.
Below are eight astonishing facts about her.
First Female Editor in Nigeria: Dr. Doyin Abiola became the first Nigerian woman to edit a national daily newspaper, taking on the role at The National Concord in 1980. By 1986, she had become the first woman to serve as Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of a Nigerian daily.
Fearless Columnist: Starting her career in 1969 at Daily Sketch, Abiola wrote the influential “Tiro” column, addressing critical social and gender issues, establishing herself as a bold voice in Nigerian journalism.
Academic Excellence: She graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1969 with a degree in English and Drama, later earning a master’s in Journalism and a PhD in Communications and Political Science from New York University in 1979.
Three-Decade Media Career: Abiola’s over 30-year tenure at National Concord saw her rise from editor to Managing Director, guiding the newspaper through challenging times and cementing its status as a leading Nigerian media outlet.
Advocate for Democracy: As the widow of Chief Moshood Abiola, the winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election, she used her platform at National Concord to champion democratic ideals and resist political oppression.
Prestigious Awards: Abiola received the Diamond Award for Media Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming only the second woman to earn this honor, and was granted an Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986 for her journalism contributions.
Media Industry Leadership: She shaped Nigeria’s media landscape as Chairperson of the inaugural Nigerian Media Merit Award’s Nominating Panel and as a member of the Advisory Council for Ogun State University’s Faculty of Social and Management Sciences.
Mentorship Legacy: Working with journalism icons like Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan at Daily Times, Abiola mentored numerous journalists, leaving a lasting impact through her editorial leadership and commitment to excellence.
