Pascal Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 85. The business tycoon’s death was announced by his family on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
According to a statement issued by his son, Uzoma Dozie, Pascal Dozie died in the early hours of Tuesday. The family described him as 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 home. He had a distinguished academic career, studying economics at the London School of Economics and earning a master’s degree in administrative science from City University in London.
Dozie’s contributions to Nigeria’s banking and telecom industries were significant.
He founded Diamond Bank in 1990, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its merger with Access Bank.
He also played a critical role in launching MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and helping to lead the telecom revolution in the country.
Throughout his career, Dozie earned widespread recognition for his leadership style, marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision.
He was awarded the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger for his contributions to the country’s economic growth.
Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and five children. The family has thanked God for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves behind, and has asked for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
