Pascal Dozie, founder of Diamond Bank and MTN Nigeria’s first chairman, has passed away aged 85
One of Nigeria’s most respected bankers, entrepreneurs, and nation-builders, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, has passed on at the age of 85.
The statement from his son Uzoma Dozie, who represents the family, reads, “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. His life was marked by service—to God, his family, and his country
“He is survived by his loving wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.
“We thank God for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves behind.May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Dozie was the founder of Diamond Bank, one of the country’s most innovative banks before its merger with Access Bank. He also served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s mobile telecommunications revolution.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s early brilliance took him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the London School of Economics, where he studied economics and earned a master’s degree in administrative science.
In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later handed the reins to his son, Uzoma.
Dozie was also instrumental to the launching of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and helping to lead the telecom revolution in the country. His leadership style, marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision, earned him widespread recognition, including the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
