Calls Grow To Honour Doyin Abiola After Death At 82

Tributes are pouring in for Dr Doyin Abiola, a trailblazing figure in Nigerian journalism, following her death on Tuesday at the age of 82.

The Lagos chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is urging the government to honour her memory by naming a media institution or facility after her.

Doyin Abiola, a former Managing Director and Publisher of the National Concord, was widely respected for her groundbreaking contributions to journalism in Nigeria. She was also one of the widows of Chief MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Speaking on Wednesday, NUJ Lagos chairman Adeleye Ajayi said Abiola’s life and work left a lasting mark on the media industry. He called for a legacy project such as a media resource centre or training institute to be named in her honour. He described her as a newsroom general who helped shape the direction of Nigerian journalism during a time when few women held top editorial positions.

Ajayi recalled that Abiola was not only the Editor-in-Chief of the now-defunct Concord newspapers, but also a committed leader who played her part with excellence. He noted that it would be impossible to tell the story of Nigerian journalism without mentioning her name.

He added that her legacy should serve as inspiration for young women in the field, especially those interested in print journalism. According to him, her achievements show that women can thrive at the highest levels of the profession with commitment and courage.

Also reflecting on Abiola’s impact, Dr Adeola Ekine, former chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos chapter, described her as a powerful example of determination and leadership. Ekine said that by rising to the top in a male-dominated field, Abiola showed that excellence and integrity can break barriers.

She encouraged younger journalists to take lessons from Abiola’s life, reminding them that growth, learning, and a clear voice are key to building a strong career in journalism.

Doyin Abiola made history as the first Nigerian woman to become editor of a national daily. Her death marks the end of a defining era in the country’s media history, but her influence will continue to guide future generations.