LAGOS, Nigeria – Pascal Dozie, a towering figure in Nigeria’s financial and corporate evolution, has died at the age of 85.
A family member confirmed to The Trent that he passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, 8 April, 2025 — just one day before his 86th birthday.
Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern corporate Nigeria, Mr Dozie’s contributions spanned banking, telecommunications, capital markets, and private equity.
He was the founder of Diamond Bank, served as the pioneer and current Chairman of MTN Nigeria, and was a founding partner of Africa Capital Alliance, Nigeria’s first indigenous private equity firm.
Born on 9 April 1939 in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Mr Dozie’s educational journey began at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku and culminated in advanced studies at the London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in economics and a master’s in administrative science.
His academic grounding would prove essential in a career defined by innovation, leadership, and impact.
In 1990, he established Diamond Bank, building it into one of Nigeria’s most trusted financial institutions.
Known for its customer-first approach and culture of innovation, the bank played a critical role in reshaping Nigeria’s banking landscape before merging with Access Bank in 2019.
Mr Dozie later handed over leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma.
His influence extended far beyond banking.
As the founding chairman of MTN Nigeria, Mr Dozie helped launch one of the country’s most transformative business ventures, bringing mobile telecommunications to millions and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s digital economy. He remained chairman of MTN Nigeria until his passing.
Mr Dozie also played key roles in shaping Nigeria’s economic and regulatory institutions.
He served on the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of Nigeria, was President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, founding Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and co-Chair of the Commonwealth Business Council.
These positions placed him at the centre of Nigeria’s efforts to build a stable, investor-friendly economy.
Throughout his career, Mr Dozie was known for his calm leadership style, commitment to integrity, and long-term vision.
He received numerous honours, including the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), in recognition of his service to the nation.
“He was a man of extraordinary foresight and discipline,” said one associate who worked closely with Mr Dozie for decades.
“It is hard to find anyone that has had a greater impact on the evolution of corporate Nigeria in the past 30 years.”
Mr Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and their children.
Further details, including funeral arrangements, are expected in the coming days.
