El-zionNews

PASCAL DOZIE Founder of defunct Diamond bank, Pascal Dozie, dies at 85

According to a statement released by the family on Tuesday, Pascal Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and a former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has passed away. The family announced that the esteemed businessman died early on Tuesday at the age of 85. As conveyed by his son, Uzoma Dozie, on behalf of the family, “With deep sorrow and gratitude to God for a life well-lived, we communicate the passing of our revered father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, on the 8th of April 2025. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and a man of steadfast Catholic beliefs. His life was characterized by his commitment to God, his family, and his nation. He is survived by his devoted wife, Chinyere, his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him."

God's grace is acknowledged for bestowing upon us the life and impactful legacy of Mr. Dozie. We pray for his soul to find eternal peace.Mr. Dozie, born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, was nurtured in a devout Catholic household, under the guidance of his father, Charles Dozie, who served as a catechist.His intellectual aptitude led him from his early education at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the prestigious London School of Economics, where he pursued studies in economics and obtained a master’s degree in administrative science.Mr. Dozie commenced his academic journey at Our Lady’s School in Emekuku, furthered it at Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College in Owerri, ultimately acquiring his West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

Embarking on a quest for advanced education overseas, he relocated to the United Kingdom and successfully completed his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics. His academic journey then led him to pursue further studies in Operational Research and Industrial Engineering, culminating in the acquisition of a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University in London. Dozie made significant contributions to Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors, notably by establishing Diamond Bank in 1990, subsequently growing it into one of the country's most esteemed financial institutions prior to its merger with Access Bank. He then passed on the leadership responsibilities to his son, Uzoma

Mr. Dozie played a crucial role in the establishment of MTN Nigeria, assuming the position of its first chairman and playing a key role in the telecommunications revolution within the nation. His leadership approach, characterized by qualities such as humility, integrity, and a focus on long-term goals, garnered him extensive acknowledgment, culminating in him being awarded the national title of Commander of the Order of the Niger.

His notable contributions to the economic progression of the country resulted in him earning significant respect. Mr. Dozie is survived by his spouse, Chinyere, and their five children.