Diamond bank founder, Pascal Dozie, dies at 85

Pascal Dozie, the founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away.
In a statement released by the family on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the prominent businessman died in the early hours of the day at the age of 85.
The statement, shared by his son, Uzoma Dozie, on behalf of the family, reads: “With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, on 8th April 2025
“He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith. His life was marked by service to God, his family, and his country.
“He is survived by his loving wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.
“We thank God for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie was raised in a Catholic household, with his father, Charles Dozie, serving as a catechist. His early academic excellence led him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the London School of Economics, where he studied economics and earned a master’s degree in administrative science.
Dozie’s foundational education began at Our Lady’s School Emekuku, followed by Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College in Owerri, where he completed his West African Senior School Certificate Examination. Pursuing higher education abroad, he moved to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics. He then furthered his studies in Operational Research and Industrial Engineering, before obtaining a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie made significant contributions to Nigeria’s banking and telecom sectors. In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which grew into one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before merging with Access Bank. He later passed on the leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
In addition, Dozie played a key role in launching MTN Nigeria, serving as the pioneer chairman and helping to shape the telecom revolution in the country. His leadership, characterized by humility, integrity, and a long-term vision, earned him widespread admiration, as well as the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger.
Dozie’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic development earned him deep respect across the nation. He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and their five children.