Defunct Diamond Bank’s ex-chairman Pascal Dozie dies at 86

• Published On: 08 April 2025 at 19:33

Pascal Dozie, one of Nigeria's most recognised business giants and the creator of Diamond Bank, died at the age of 86. According to family members, Dozie died as a result of an old-age sickness.

Dozie is a towering figure in Nigeria's economic and corporate sectors, with a record that includes decades of pioneering work in banking, telecommunications, and education. In addition to founding Diamond Bank, one of Nigeria's most notable financial institutions prior to its merger with Access Bank, he served as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University and previous chairman of MTN Nigeria, the country's largest telecoms carrier.

Pascal Dozie was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State. He studied Economics at the London School of Economics and then received a master's degree in Administrative Science from City University in London.

After returning to Nigeria, he formed the African Development Consulting Group, which provided advice services to global corporations such as Nestlé and Pfizer, laying the groundwork for his extensive engagement in both national and multinational commercial development.

During his term as chairman of MTN Group, the telecom giant rose to prominence in Nigeria's communications sector. He finally resigned down and was replaced by Dr. Ernest Ndukwe.

Dozie was given the Order of the Niger (OON) for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria's economic growth and the development of its financial services industry.

Pascal Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere Dozie, five children, and several grandkids. Tributes have already started flooding in from all over the country, with many hailing him as a visionary leader and mentor who helped establish Nigeria's modern economic scene.

The family plans to announce funeral arrangements in the following days.