By Newscount
Nigerian entrepreneur and financier Pascal Gabriel Dozie passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of innovative banking and significant contributions to the country’s economy. Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie was a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s financial sector.
Dozie’s academic background was rooted in economics, having earned a degree from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University in London. This solid educational foundation paved the way for his illustrious career.
In 1991, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which quickly became renowned for its customer-centric approach to banking in Nigeria. He served as the bank’s CEO until 2006, when he handed over leadership to his son, Uzoma Dozie. The bank’s innovative strategies under his leadership earned it a prominent place in Nigeria’s financial landscape.
Beyond banking, Dozie made significant contributions to Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. As the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria from 2001, he played a crucial role in the company’s emergence as the country’s largest telecom provider, expanding mobile connectivity across Africa.
Dozie’s contributions to the Nigerian economy were recognized with national honors, including the Order of the Niger (OON) and the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). He also served as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University, further solidifying his impact on education and entrepreneurship.
Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere Dozie, and their five children, including Uzoma Dozie, who followed in his footsteps in the banking industry. Condolence messages have poured in from Nigeria’s business and political communities, reflecting on his legacy of integrity and nation-building.
