Pioneering Journalist Doyinsola Abiola Laid to Rest in Lekki, Lagos, After Solemn Service
Lagos, September 12, 2025 – Dr. Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, a trailblazing figure in Nigerian journalism and widow of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, was laid to rest today in Lekki, Lagos. Her funeral service took place at the historic Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina. The event drew dignitaries, family, and admirers who gathered to honor her remarkable life.
The service was emotional. It featured prayers, hymns, and heartfelt tributes. Her body was later taken to Lekki for burial. This marked the end of a week-long series of memorials for the 82-year-old media icon. She passed away on August 5, 2025, after a brief illness.
A Life of Firsts in Journalism and Advocacy
Doyinsola Abiola was born in 1943. She graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1969 with a degree in English and Drama. She started her career as a reporter at the defunct Daily Sketch newspaper. Her rise was historic. In 1980, she became the first woman to edit a national newspaper in Nigeria. She served as editor of the National Concord, owned by her late husband MKO Abiola.
She later became the first female managing director of a daily newspaper. This role was at the Concord Group of Newspapers. Abiola broke many glass ceilings. She earned a Ph.D. and championed women’s empowerment in media. Her work focused on truth, justice, and democracy.
Abiola’s life intertwined with Nigeria’s political history. She was married to MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election. During his campaign and the struggle that followed, she stood firm. She faced harassment and detention. Yet, she remained unbowed. Her commitment to press freedom inspired many.
In her later years, Abiola continued to influence society. She was active in philanthropy and community service. Her quiet strength touched family and friends alike. Tributes described her as an “Amazon” and a “soldier of democracy.”
The Funeral: Dignitaries Gather at Marina Cathedral
The Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina was packed. The service started at 10 a.m. It was officiated by Ven. Henry Adelegan, Canon Residentiary of the Cathedral. Bible readings set a tone of comfort and hope. Midun Tobun read Psalm 91. Suru Aboaba read from 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18.
The sermon came from Rt. Rev. Pelu Johnson, Diocesan Bishop of Lagos West. His theme was “restoration and hope.” He praised Abiola’s achievements. He called her a record-breaker who shattered barriers. Johnson highlighted her role as Nigeria’s first female Ph.D. in journalism. He spoke of her resilience and devotion.
Many prominent figures attended. President Bola Tinubu sent Minister of Finance Wale Edun as his representative. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was there. Former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode attended. Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Ogun State Governor, joined too. Former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Nike Akande was present.
Media leaders filled the pews. Eniola Bello, Managing Director of ThisDay, came. Adesoji Ajayi-Bembe, the Obanikoro of Lagos, attended. Sir Steve Omojafor, Chairman of STB-McCann, was there. Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti showed up. Femi Adesina, former presidential aide, joined. Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, wife of former Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola, was present.
Journalism veterans paid respects. Dele Babarinsa, co-founder of Tell magazine, attended. Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Managing Director of Daily Times, came. Gbenga Adefaye, Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, was there. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga also joined.
The atmosphere was solemn. Hymns filled the air. Attendees shared tears and memories. Family members spoke of her love and guidance. One relative said, “She never complained. She was always strong.”
From Tributes to Burial: A Week of Remembrance
The funeral capped a series of events. It started on September 9 with a night of tributes at Harbour Point, Victoria Island. Family, colleagues, and friends celebrated her life there. Speakers shared stories of her impact. The week honored her journalism, philanthropy, and family roles.
On September 10, more tributes came. Former Governor Babatunde Fashola spoke personally. He reflected on her influence. Minister Jumoke Oduwole shared how Abiola touched her life. Her daughter, Mrs. Doyinsola Abiola-Tobun, gave a heartfelt speech. She called her mother her “greatest mentor.”
After the Marina service, the cortege moved to Lekki. The burial was private but moving. Prayers and hymns echoed. Tributes continued at the graveside. Family and close friends gathered. The site was simple yet dignified. It reflected Abiola’s life of grace and purpose.
Tributes Pour In: A Legacy of Strength and Service
President Bola Tinubu led the condolences. He called her a “media trailblazer” and “soldier of democracy.” He praised her gender barrier-breaking work. Tinubu noted her role in MKO Abiola’s 1993 campaign. He said Nigerians would remember her commitment to truth and justice.
Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu mourned deeply. He said her death was a loss to journalism. Sanwo-Olu highlighted her empowerment of women. He prayed for the family’s comfort.
The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) grieved. President Kabiru Yusuf called her a “sister, friend, and trustee.” He praised her contributions to media.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) was saddened. They described her as a “trailblazing journalist.” The group noted her pioneering spirit.
Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun called her a “quintessential mother” and “national icon.” He lauded her purpose and integrity.
Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka paid respects. He remembered her resilience during tough times. Soyinka called her a “beacon of courage.”
Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake mourned. He said her legacy would endure.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu sent condolences. She praised Abiola’s strength and service.
On social media, tributes flooded in. X users shared memories. One post read, “Rest in peace, Dr. Doyin Abiola. A true pioneer.” Another said, “Her voice for democracy will never fade.” Hashtags like #DoyinAbiola and #MediaIcon trended in Nigeria.
A Lasting Legacy in Media and Beyond
Doyinsola Abiola’s death ends an era. She was more than a journalist. She was a defender of rights. Her work at Concord Press shaped public discourse. She mentored many women in media. Her Ph.D. made her a scholar too.
As Nigeria’s first female national newspaper editor, she inspired generations. Her marriage to MKO Abiola tied her to June 12. She supported his fight for justice. Even after his death in 1998, she carried on.
Abiola’s daughter, Doyinsola Abiola-Tobun, spoke of her mother’s love. She said Abiola was a role model. The family received visitors in Lekki. They shared stories of her kindness.
Abiola’s burial in Lekki closes a chapter. But her influence lives on. Friends say her quiet strength marked her life. She left an indelible mark on Nigeria.
As the nation mourns, her story reminds us of resilience. From reporter to icon, Doyinsola Abiola broke barriers. Her legacy of truth and democracy endures.