Dignitaries Pay Final Tribute to Trailblazing Journalist Dr. Doyin Abiola at Lagos Burial

The Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, was a scene of solemnity and reverence on Friday, September 12, 2025, as Nigeria’s foremost media icon, Dr. Doyinsola Hamidat Abiola, was laid to rest. The funeral, attended by a distinguished gathering of past and present political leaders, media executives, and well-wishers, marked the end of a week-long series of commemorations celebrating the life and indelible legacy of the late pioneer journalist.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented at the service by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, led the dignitaries honoring Dr. Abiola. Other notable attendees included former Governors of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, former Ogun State Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Minister of Mines Mr. Dele Alake, and a host of senior media figures and family members.

Dr. Abiola, the wife of the late democratic icon Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, passed away on August 5, 2025, at the age of 82 following a brief illness. Known for breaking glass ceilings throughout her career, she was Nigeria’s first female Ph.D. holder in journalism (1979), the first woman to edit a national daily newspaper (1980), and later the first female Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of the National Concord. Her pioneering leadership transformed Nigeria’s journalism landscape and inspired generations of media professionals across the nation.

ADVERTISEMENT

The sermon, delivered by the Rt. Rev. Pelu Johnson, Diocesan Bishop of Lagos West, focused on themes of restoration and hope, reflecting on Dr. Abiola’s life as a beacon of resilience and courage. He lauded her unwavering support of Nigeria’s democratic journey alongside her late husband, highlighting her role in using Concord Newspapers as a powerful platform for advocacy and change. While honoring her legacy, Bishop Johnson also called for urgent government action to address national challenges, urging against additional taxation on fuel that could worsen citizens’ hardships.

The funeral service officiated by Canon Residentiary Ven. Henry Adelegan included readings of Psalm 91 and passages from 1 Thessalonians 4, with contributions from family and associates that underscored Dr. Abiola’s faith and family values.

Following the service, Dr. Doyin Abiola was interred in Lekki, Lagos, amidst a heartfelt outpouring of grief, prayers, and tributes to her enduring legacy as both a trailblazer in Nigerian media and a stalwart advocate for democracy.

Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Abiola championed press freedom, gender equity, and national development, mentoring countless journalists who have since risen to prominence. Her story remains emblematic of courage and excellence in Nigeria’s socio-political and media history