President Tinubu Mourns Doyin Abiola, Hails Her as a Pillar of Journalism and Democracy
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, former Managing Director of the defunct Concord Group of Newspapers and widow of late Chief MKO Abiola.
In a heartfelt statement from the State House, Tinubu described the late journalist as a trailblazer, an icon in Nigerian media, and a relentless defender of democracy.
A Trailblazing Career That Broke Barriers
Nigeria’s First Female Newspaper Editor
Dr. Doyin Abiola made history as the first woman to edit a national newspaper in Nigeria and later became the first female Managing Director of a daily newspaper. Her journey in journalism began in 1969 as a reporter with the defunct Daily Sketch after graduating from the University of Ibadan with a degree in English and Drama.
In 1980, she became the pioneer editor of National Concord, founded by her husband MKO Abiola. She would go on to become Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of all Concord titles, including the widely acclaimed Weekend Concord, which revolutionized human-interest journalism in Nigeria.
Legacy of Gender Equity and Democratic Struggle
Championing Women and Democracy
President Tinubu emphasized Doyin Abiola’s unwavering commitment to gender equity and democracy. “Her immense contributions to journalism and gender equity laid a foundation for generations of women,” he said, adding that her influence extended far beyond the newsroom.
Following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by her husband, Abiola stood firmly on the side of justice. Despite the military regime’s closure of the Concord Group, she joined the fight for democratic restoration, using her platform and voice to demand the validation of the election.
“She was a soldier of democracy in her own right,” Tinubu said.
A Personal Connection and National Impact
President Tinubu noted his personal relationship with Dr. Abiola, rooted in his close ties with MKO Abiola. He recalled how she actively engaged in politics during her husband’s presidential bid, providing leadership and direction for media support during the campaign.
“Her impact on our democracy was even more profound,” he noted, praising her integrity, tenacity, and commitment to excellence.
A National Loss and Timeless Legacy
President Tinubu described Dr. Doyin Abiola as an “Amazon” and a symbol of integrity whose legacy will endure in Nigerian media and democratic history. He extended condolences to the Abiola and Aboaba families, her daughter Doyinsola, and the governments and people of Lagos and Ogun States.
“May her soul rest in peace. May this nation be blessed with more women of Doyin Abiola’s calibre and pedigree,” the President concluded.
