Just in: Defunct Diamond Bank Founder, Pascal Dozie, Dies at 85

Mr. Pascal Dozie, the founder of Diamond Bank Plc and former Chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 85.

According to a statement released by his family on Tuesday, Dozie died in the early hours of the day, leaving behind a legacy that has significantly impacted Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors.

The statement, signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, reads: “With deep sorrow, yet grateful to God for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, on April 8, 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.

“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.”

Dozie was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State. He had his early education at Our Lady’s School Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

In pursuit of higher education, Dozie relocated to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics.

He expanded his academic credentials by studying Operational Research and Industrial Engineering, followed by a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City, University of London.

He played a critical role in Nigeria’s banking and telecom industries.

In 1990, Dozie took a bold entrepreneurial step by founding Diamond Bank, a pioneering financial institution that would go on to earn a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected banks, ultimately leading to its merger with Access Bank.

He subsequently passed the leadership torch to his son, Uzoma.

Dozie played a pivotal role in the launch of MTN Nigeria, serving as the company’s inaugural chairman and driving the country’s telecom revolution forward with his visionary leadership.

His leadership style marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger.

Dozie’s profound impact on Nigeria’s economic landscape earned him profound respect from his peers and the nation at large.