Pascal Gabriel Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 85, just a day before his 86th birthday.
His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement released on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
Key Details:
- Life and Legacy: Dozie was a visionary entrepreneur and economist who played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors. He founded Diamond Bank, one of Nigeria’s most innovative financial institutions, before its merger with Access Bank. He also served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria.
- Family Statement: His son, Uzoma Dozie, described him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith. The family expressed gratitude for his life and legacy, requesting privacy as they plan a befitting burial.
- National Impact: Dozie’s contributions extended beyond corporate leadership. He was a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. His efforts in policy formulation and private sector development left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s economy.
- Tributes: President Bola Tinubu described Dozie as a “rare breed business leader” whose wisdom and pioneering efforts laid a foundation for many to build upon. He urged the private sector to honor Dozie’s memory by upholding values of integrity, innovation, and nation-building.
This marks the loss of a remarkable figure whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.