Lagos, Nigeria – April 8, 2025

Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a towering figure in Nigeria’s business and financial landscape, has died at the age of 85.

The renowned entrepreneur, who founded the now-defunct Diamond Bank and served as the inaugural chairman of MTN Nigeria, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8, 2025, according to a statement released by his family.

“With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie,” the family’s statement, signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, read. “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.”

Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and extended family members.

Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s early life was shaped by strong Catholic values. His father, Charles Dozie, was a catechist, and the family’s faith played a formative role in his upbringing. He attended Our Lady’s School in Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where he earned his WASSCE qualification.

A bright student, Dozie moved to the United Kingdom for higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics. He later obtained a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London, after further studies in Operational Research and Industrial Engineering.

In 1990, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which quickly rose to become one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. The bank remained under family leadership until it merged with Access Bank in 2019. Dozie handed over the reins to his son, Uzoma, who served as the bank’s final CEO before the merger.

Beyond banking, Dozie was a pioneer in Nigeria’s telecom sector. As the founding chairman of MTN Nigeria, he played a crucial role in steering the company through its early stages, helping to establish it as the dominant force in Nigeria’s mobile telecommunications market. His leadership was marked by strategic vision, humility, and a deep commitment to national development.

In recognition of his significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy, Dozie was awarded the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

A respected statesman in business and an elder in the private sector, Pascal Dozie leaves behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and impact.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.