Pascal Dozie, the former chairman of MTN Nigeria and founder of Diamond Bank, has passed away at the age of 85. His son, Uzoma Dozie, confirmed the news in a statement on April 8, 2025. Uzoma described his father as a man of deep faith who lived his life serving God, his family, and Nigeria.
Pascal Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, children, and grandchildren. His family described him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who lived a life of purpose. “He lived a full life, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and vision,” Uzoma said.
Early Life and Education Of Pascal Dozie
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal grew up in a Catholic home. His father, Charles Dozie, worked as a catechist. Pascal attended Our Lady’s School in Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College, Owerri.
He later studied economics at the London School of Economics (LSE) and earned a master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University in London. He also studied Operational Research and Industrial Engineering during his time abroad.
Founding Diamond Bank
Pascal Dozie created Diamond Bank in 1990 to support traders in South-Eastern Nigeria. He applied for a banking license in 1985 and started the bank with ₦10 million from just 21 shareholders. Diamond Bank officially began operations in 1991 after meeting the Central Bank of Nigeria’s requirements.
He ran the bank as CEO until 2006, when he handed the leadership over to his son, Uzoma. Under his leadership, Diamond Bank became a tech-driven institution that grew rapidly. By 2017, it had 297 branches across Nigeria. Diamond Bank merged with Access Bank in 2019 to create a larger financial institution.
Driving MTN Nigeria’s Growth
In the early 2000s, MTN Group approached Pascal Dozie to help raise 40% of the capital needed to launch MTN Nigeria. While many investors were hesitant, Pascal believed in the project and raised 20% of the required funds from a few trusted friends. This move helped bring MTN to life in Nigeria.
He served as MTN Nigeria’s chairman from 2001 to 2019, guiding the company through years of growth. Today, MTN is Nigeria’s largest telecom provider, with 87.5 million subscribers and a 51.7% market share as of January 2025.
National Impact and Recognition
Pascal Dozie also led the Nigerian Stock Exchange and chaired the Pan-African University. He held shares in MTN and used his influence to grow both Nigeria’s telecom and banking industries. His contributions earned him top national honors, including the Order of the Niger (OON) and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), as well as the AABLA Lifetime Achievement Award.
Pascal Dozie’s leadership style combined humility, honesty, and vision. His work helped shape Nigeria’s economy and inspired countless entrepreneurs. As Nigeria mourns, his legacy lives on in the institutions he built and the lives he touched.
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