Pascal Gabriel Dozie, one of Nigeria’s most influential business figures and the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc, has passed away at the age of 85.
The Dozie family confirmed his passing in a statement released on Tuesday, announcing that the respected entrepreneur and former MTN Nigeria chairman died peacefully in the early hours of April 8, 2025.
“With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father,” read a statement by his son, Uzoma Dozie, on behalf of the family. “He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith. His life was marked by service to God, his family, and his country.”
A trailblazer in Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors, Pascal Dozie was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State. Raised in a devout Catholic home by his father, a catechist, Dozie’s early education began at Our Lady’s School, Emekuku, and continued through Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College, Owerri.
He later moved to the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics. He went on to study Operational Research and Industrial Engineering, culminating in a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London.
In 1990, Dozie established Diamond Bank, which grew into a household name in Nigeria’s financial landscape before its merger with Access Bank. Known for his principled leadership, he later handed over control of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
Dozie was also at the forefront of Nigeria’s telecom revolution. As the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, he played a pivotal role in launching the telecom giant and shaping its early growth.
His contributions to the private sector and national development were recognized with numerous accolades, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, five children, grandchildren, and a legacy of visionary leadership.
The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and called for prayers for the repose of his soul. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
