The founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria Pascal Gabriel Dozie has passed away at the age of 85. The family confirmed his death in a statement on Tuesday, announcing that he died in the early hours of April 8, 2025.
The statement, released by his son, Uzoma Dozie, conveyed deep sorrow but also gratitude for the life he lived. It read: “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 8th April 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.”
Dozie, who played a significant role in Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors, is survived by his wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and many who were fortunate to know him. The family expressed thanks to God for the gift of his life and legacy, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie was raised in a Catholic home, with his father, Charles Dozie, serving as a catechist. His educational journey was marked by excellence, beginning with his early schooling at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College in Owerri. He went on to study Economics at the London School of Economics, earning both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University in London.
In 1990, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He also led MTN Nigeria as its inaugural chairman, contributing to the growth of telecommunications in Nigeria. His leadership, characterized by humility and vision, earned him widespread recognition, including the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Dozie’s contributions to the Nigerian economy and his leadership in both the banking and telecom industries left an indelible mark on the country. He will be remembered for his integrity, vision, and the legacy he leaves behind in Nigeria’s corporate world.
