Pascal Gabriel Dozie, founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and former chairman of MTN Nigeria, has died at the age of 85.

Founder of Diamond Bank, Pascal Dozie, dies at 85

A statement from his family says he died today April 8, a day to his 86th birthday.

The late Dozie was the founder of the defunct Diamond Bank, one of the country’s most innovative banks before its merger with Access Bank. He also served as the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s mobile telecommunications revolution.

Born on April 9, 1939 in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s early brilliance took 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. In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later handed the reins to his son, Uzoma.

Late Dozie was also instrumental to the launching of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and helping to lead the telecom revolution in the country. 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 and grandchildren.

May his soul rest in peace, Amen.