Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a distinguished Nigerian entrepreneur and business leader, has passed away at the age of 86.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie was a key figure in Nigeria’s economic development. He began his academic journey in Nigeria before moving to the United Kingdom, where he earned a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London.
In 1989, Dozie founded Diamond Bank and served as its Chairman and Managing Director until 2006. Under his leadership, the bank grew into one of Nigeria’s foremost financial institutions. He later played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s telecom revolution as the founding Chairman of MTN Nigeria Communications Limited, helping shape the modern telecom landscape of the country.
Beyond the banking and telecommunications sectors, Dozie was involved in several ventures. He co-founded African Capital Alliance and Kunoch Limited and served as Chairman of Pan-Atlantic University. His public service record includes positions such as Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
Pascal Dozie was married to Chinyere Dozie, and they had five sons together. He received numerous honors during his lifetime, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), recognizing his immense contributions to Nigeria’s business and economic landscape.
His death marks the end of an era for Nigerian entrepreneurship, but his legacy of innovation, leadership, and commitment to national development will continue to inspire generations to come.
