Pascal Dozie, champion of Nigerian innovation, economic growth, dies at 85

Onome Amuge

Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a renowned figure in Nigerian banking and a pioneering force in the country’s telecommunications revolution, has died at the age of 85, his family announced. Dozie, who would have turned 86 on Wednesday, April 9th, passed away on Monday, April 8th.

In a statement released by his son, Uzoma Dozie, the late businessman was described as a “devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.”

Dozie was the visionary founder of Diamond Bank, established in 1990. The institution garnered a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most innovative financial players before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later passed the leadership of Diamond Bank to his son, Uzoma.

Beyond his significant contributions to the banking sector, Dozie played an instrumental role in shaping Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape. He served as the inaugural chairman of MTN Nigeria, guiding the mobile network through its formative years following the liberalisation of the sector in the early 2000s. Under his chairmanship, MTN experienced rapid expansion, becoming the country’s largest mobile operator and a symbol of Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s academic pursuits led him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the prestigious London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in economics. He furthered his education with a master’s degree in administrative science from City University, London.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dozie was widely respected for his humility, long-term strategic vision, and unwavering integrity. His profound contributions to Nigeria’s economic development earned him national recognition, including the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

In addition to his entrepreneurial successes, Dozie was a respected boardroom statesman, serving on numerous corporate and public boards. His insights played a crucial role in shaping corporate governance practices in Nigeria during the country’s era of economic liberalisation.

Pascal Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and a multitude of individuals who were inspired by his leadership and enduring legacy.