PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS PASSING OF TRAILBLAZING JOURNALIST, DOYIN ABIOLA

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Dr. Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, a trailblazing journalist, editor, and former Managing Director of the defunct Concord Group of newspapers. In a statement, President Tinubu described Abiola as an Amazon and an icon in Nigerian journalism who broke the gender barrier and laid a foundation for generations of women.

“Doyin Abiola, 82, was an Amazon and an icon in Nigerian journalism. She stayed in the journalism course since starting as a reporter with the defunct Daily Sketch after graduating from the University of Ibadan in 1969, majoring in English and Drama,” President Tinubu said. He noted that Abiola’s immense contributions to journalism and gender equity have had a lasting impact on the industry.

The President also highlighted Abiola’s significant role in Nigeria’s democracy, particularly during the June 12 presidential election of 1993 won by her husband, MKO Abiola. “She played a prominent role in MKO’s election, mobilising and providing direction for the media under her control. And when the June 12 election, won by her husband, was annulled, she did not stand aside,” President Tinubu said.

President Tinubu commended Abiola’s leadership during her illustrious journalism career, her championing women’s empowerment, and her commitment to democracy. “Nigerians will never forget Doyin Abiola’s leadership during her illustrious journalism career, her championing women’s empowerment, and her commitment to democracy,” he said.

The President condoled with the Abiola and Aboaba families, Abiola’s only daughter, Doyinsola, and the government 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,” President Tinubu prayed.