Pascal Dozie, one of Nigeria’s most respected business leaders and founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank Plc, has died. He passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the age of 85.
The announcement was made by his family through a statement signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie.
“With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie,” the statement read.
“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.”
Brief Biography of Pascal Dozie
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie was raised in a Catholic home. His father, Charles Dozie, was a catechist who instilled strong moral and spiritual values in him from a young age.
Dozie’s journey to success began at Our Lady’s School, Emekuku, followed by studies at the Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College, Owerri. He later travelled to the United Kingdom for higher education, where he earned a degree in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics and a Master’s in Administrative Science from City University, London.
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In 1990, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which grew to become one of Nigeria’s most reputable financial institutions before merging with Access Bank in 2019. He later handed over leadership to his son, Uzoma, continuing the family legacy in banking.
Dozie was also a key figure in Nigeria’s telecommunications revolution. As the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, he helped steer the company during its early years, playing a pivotal role in expanding mobile communication across the country.
Known for his humility, integrity, and visionary leadership, Pascal Dozie was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development.
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, five children, and several grandchildren.
“We thank God for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves behind,” the family’s statement concluded. “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
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