Pascal Dozie, founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has died at the age of 85.
A statement issued by his family on Tuesday confirmed that the prominent businessman passed away in the early hours of April 8, 2025.
The statement, signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, 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.”
Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and other relatives.
Born in 1939, Dozie played a key role in the development of Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors. He founded Diamond Bank in 1990, which grew into one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions before its merger with Access Bank. He later handed over the leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
Dozie also served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, where he was instrumental in the telecom company’s entry into the Nigerian market and its subsequent growth.
In recognition of his contributions to the country’s economic development, he was awarded the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
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