By Douglas Maha, with agency report
Renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank Plc, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, has died at the age of 85.
A statement released by his family on Tuesday confirmed that the business icon passed away in the early hours of April 8, 2025.
“With deep sorrow but gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie,” the statement read. It was signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, who also described his father as “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,” the family added. “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.”
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie was raised in a devout Catholic home, with his father, Charles Dozie, serving as a catechist. He began his education at Our Lady’s School, Emekuku, and continued through Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate.
Driven by academic ambition, Dozie travelled to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics, followed by a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London. He also studied Operational Research and Industrial Engineering, equipping himself with the tools for a distinguished career in business and finance.
In 1990, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which grew into one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later handed over leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
Dozie also played a pivotal role in the growth of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. As the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, he was instrumental in launching the telecom giant’s operations in the country, helping to usher in a new era of connectivity and innovation.
A man celebrated for his humility, integrity, and visionary leadership, Dozie was conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development.
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and their five children, leaving behind a legacy of enterprise, impact, and nation-building.
