One of Nigeria’s most respected business icons and the founder of Diamond Bank, Pascal Dozie, has passed away at the age of 86. Family sources confirmed that Dozie died after a period of illness associated with old age.
A towering figure in Nigeria’s economic and corporate space, Dozie’s legacy spans decades of pioneering work in banking, telecommunications, and education. Beyond founding Diamond Bank—one of Nigeria’s most prominent financial institutions before its merger with Access Bank—he also served as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, the country’s largest telecommunications provider.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie studied Economics at the London School of Economics and later earned a master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London.
Upon returning to Nigeria, he founded the African Development Consulting Group, which offered advisory services to global giants such as Nestlé and Pfizer, setting the stage for his deep involvement in both national and multinational business development.
His tenure as chairman of MTN Group saw the telecom giant become a dominant player in Nigeria’s communications sector. He eventually stepped down and was succeeded by Dr. Ernest Ndukwe.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and the development of its financial services industry, Dozie was awarded the prestigious national honour of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Pascal Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere Dozie, five children, and numerous grandchildren. Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the country, with many describing him as a visionary leader and mentor who helped shape Nigeria’s modern business landscape.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
