Pascal Dozie, the founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 85.His death was confirmed by a statement from his family on Tuesday.
The business icon reportedly died in the early hours of April 8, 2025.In a tribute signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, the family expressed their grief and gratitude: “With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of deep Catholic faith. His life was defined by service to God, family, and nation.”
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and many others whose lives he touched. Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie was raised in a Catholic family, with his father serving as a catechist. His early education took him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to Holy Ghost College, Owerri. He later moved to the UK, where he earned a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University, London.
Dozie made significant contributions to Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors. In 1990, he established Diamond Bank, which grew into one of the country’s leading financial institutions before its merger with Access Bank. He eventually passed leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
He also played a pivotal role in the birth of MTN Nigeria, serving as its first chairman and supporting its early growth during Nigeria’s telecom revolution.
Dozie’s visionary leadership and dedication earned him national and international recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). His legacy lives on through his family, professional impact, and the many lives he influenced throughout his remarkable career.
Source : https://punchng.com/
