President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran journalist and media trailblazer, Dr Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, who died on Tuesday at the age of 82.
Dr Abiola, widow of the late business mogul and winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, was hailed as a pioneering figure in Nigerian journalism and a champion of democracy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the State House, President Tinubu described her as a “trailblazer journalist”, “an Amazon,” and “a soldier of democracy.”
“Doyin Abiola was an icon in Nigerian journalism. She broke gender barriers and etched her name in history as the first woman to edit a national newspaper and the first female managing director of a daily publication,” the President said.
He commended her lifelong commitment to journalism, beginning with her career as a reporter at the defunct Daily Sketch shortly after graduating from the University of Ibadan in 1969, where she studied English and Drama.
“Her immense contributions to journalism and gender equity laid a foundation for generations of women. Her impact on our democracy was even more profound,” Tinubu added.
Also mourning her passing, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Dr Abiola as an “Amazon who left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s media landscape.”
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In a condolence statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, the governor praised her outstanding professional journey—rising through the ranks from reporter and features writer to Group Features Editor, and eventually becoming the first Nigerian woman to serve as both Editor and Managing Director of a national daily.
“Dr Abiola’s death is a great loss to journalism and the media industry in Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “She mentored and inspired generations of journalists and media professionals, many of whom are now respected voices in various sectors.”
He also acknowledged her role in national development and advocacy for gender equity, describing her as a “pillar of support” to her husband and a “respected voice in national discourse” long after his demise.
“Doyin Abiola played a significant role in national development and championed gender-related issues with passion and dedication. She was a role model to many in the profession,” Sanwo-Olu said, praying for the peaceful repose of her soul and comfort for the family she left behind.
Dr Abiola’s legacy as a media pioneer, advocate, and symbol of courage continues to resonate across the nation.