BREAKING: Pascal Dozie, Founder of Diamond Bank and Former MTN Nigeria Chairman, Dies at 85

Pascal Gabriel Dozie, the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 85. His death occurred just a day before his 86th birthday. ​

Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie was a prominent figure in Nigeria's financial and telecommunications sectors. He founded Diamond Bank in 1990, leading it to become one of Nigeria's most innovative banks before its merger with Access Bank. Additionally, he served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in the country's mobile telecommunications revolution. ​

Dozie's contributions extended beyond banking and telecommunications; he was also the chairman of Pan-Atlantic University and a founding partner of Africa Capital Alliance. His leadership style, marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision, earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). ​

He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and children. The family has requested privacy during this time and will announce funeral arrangements in due course.