Diamond Bank founder, Pascal Dozie dies at 85
The founder of Diamond Bank, Pascal Dozie a Nigerian entrepreneur who played a defining role in the development of Nigeria’s modern banking and telecommunications industries has been reported dead
Penpushing reports that a family statement issued by his son, Uzoma Dozie said Dozie who established the bank in 1990 passed away on April, 8, 2025 at age of 85 describing him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.
“With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father. His life was marked by service—to God, his family, and his country’, the statement reads
Penpushing further reports that the deceased before retirement nurtured the bank to become one of Nigeria’s most innovative financial institutions before it merged with Access Bank in 2019.
The late Dozie later handed over leadership of the bank to his son, Uzoma, who served as Chief Executive Officer until the merger, and beyond banking, the deceased was instrumental in the evolution of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
Penpushing also reports that he served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, helping guide the telecoms giant through its early days following the liberalisation of the sector in the early 2000s.
The MTN under stewardship of Dozie, who was born on April 9,1939 in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, expanded rapidly, becoming the country’s largest mobile network and a symbol of Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Penpushing reports that Dozie’s academic journey took him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the London School of Economics, where he earned a degree in economics and later obtained a master’s degree in administrative science from City University, London.
The deceased throughout his career, was celebrated for his humility, long-term vision, and integrity, while his contributions earned him national recognition, including the award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), one of Nigeria’s highest honours.
Penpushing further reports that in addition to his professional achievements, he was a boardroom statesman who served on several corporate and public boards, helping shape corporate governance in Nigeria during the country’s economic liberalisation era.
The deceased is survived by his wife, Chinyere, children, grandchildren, and many who were inspired by his leadership and legacy, while as at the time of filing this report the family was yet to announce funeral arrangement
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