Pascal Dozie, a towering figure in Nigeria’s financial and business landscape, has passed away at the age of 86. The celebrated entrepreneur, best known for founding Diamond Bank and chairing MTN Group, succumbed to an old age-related illness, sources close to the family confirmed.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s illustrious career was shaped by his education at the London School of Economics and City University in London, where he earned degrees in economics and administrative science, respectively. His vision birthed Diamond Bank, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s banking sector, and he later chaired Pan-Atlantic University, leaving an indelible mark on education and finance.
Dozie’s entrepreneurial spirit extended to founding the African Development Consulting Group, serving clients like Nestle and Pfizer, and co-founding African Capital Alliance and Kunoch Limited. His leadership at MTN Group ended with his resignation, succeeded by Ernest Ndukwe. Honoured with the Order of the Niger (OON), Dozie’s legacy in Nigeria’s banking industry remains unparalleled.
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere Dozie, five children, and numerous relatives.
Nigeria mourns the loss of a trailblazer whose contributions shaped its economic landscape.