Pascal Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 85. His family announced his death in a statement on Tuesday morning.
His son, Uzoma Dozie, shared the news, expressing sorrow but gratitude for a life well-lived: “With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, on April 8, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.”
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie was raised in a Catholic household, with his father serving as a catechist. He received his early education at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku and later attended the London School of Economics, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics and a master’s degree in Administrative Science.
Dozie played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors. In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which grew to be one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before merging with Access Bank. He eventually passed leadership to his son, Uzoma.
Additionally, Dozie was instrumental in the launch of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and leading the telecom revolution in the country. His leadership was characterized by humility and integrity, earning him the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger.
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and five children, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
