Renowned Aviation Journalist Shola Adekola Passes Away at 61

The Nigerian aviation and media industry has been thrown into mourning following the passing of Mrs Shola Oluremi Adekola, a respected journalist and Assistant Business and Aviation Editor of the Nigerian Tribune.

She passed away on Tuesday, 4th March 2025, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, after a brief illness. She was 61.

Born to the late Professor Morakinyo Omole and Mrs Funmilayo Omole, Mrs Adekola grew up in the prestigious University of Ibadan community, where she later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Classical Studies in 1988.

Fondly known as ‘Madam Sholly’ within professional circles, she built a distinguished career in journalism, particularly in the aviation sector.

Mrs Adekola further honed her expertise at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, where she undertook various professional courses in aviation reporting and management for image makers between 1993 and 2023.

Her dedication to aviation journalism also saw her attend conferences across Europe, America, the Middle East, and Africa, further cementing her reputation as a leading voice in the industry.

A prolific columnist, Mrs Adekola’s widely read column, Crucial Moment, was a staple of the Nigerian Tribune’s business pages every Thursday, offering critical insights into aviation and business affairs.

Her journalism career began when she was posted to the aviation beat in 1993 by The Triumph, a Kano State Government-owned newspaper.

Over the years, she worked with esteemed media organisations including Hallmark, Daily Times, Reuters, and ultimately, the Nigerian Tribune, where she rose through the ranks from Proofreader to Sub-Editor, Correspondent, and later Assistant Editor/Aviation Editor.

Beyond her journalistic endeavours, Mrs Adekola played a pivotal role in the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), which she joined in 1993.

She served in various leadership capacities, including Assistant Secretary, Secretary, and Vice Chairman, contributing immensely to the growth and professionalism of aviation journalism in Nigeria.

Her demise marks the end of an era in aviation reporting, and she will be deeply missed by colleagues, readers, and industry stakeholders.