Nigeria business mogul Pascal Dozie, Diamond Bank Founder is dead

Pascal Gabriel Dozie, one of Nigeria’s most respected bankers, entrepreneurs, and nation-builders, has passed away at the age of 85.

A family member confirmed to NUJ FCT that Dozie died in the early hours of Tuesday, just one day before his 86th birthday.

Dozie was widely known as the founder of Diamond Bank, which stood out as one of Nigeria’s most innovative financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. In 1990, he established the bank and later handed over leadership to his son, Uzoma Dozie.

He also played a significant role in Nigeria’s telecom sector, serving as the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria. His efforts were crucial to the country’s mobile telecommunications growth and transformation.

Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie’s brilliance became evident early in life. He began his education at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku before moving to the London School of Economics, where he studied Economics. He later obtained a master’s degree in Administrative Science.

His leadership style—defined by humility, integrity, and visionary thinking—earned him widespread respect across Nigeria and beyond. For his contributions to the country’s economic progress, Dozie was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Pascal Dozie leaves behind a lasting legacy of innovation, discipline, and service to Nigeria’s development.

He is survived by his wife, Chinyere Dozie, and their children.