By Ruth Onaigbe
For Effizzie Magazine Society News
Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur and banker, passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 85, just one day shy of his 86th birthday. He was the founder of Diamond Bank and the first chairman of MTN Nigeria, leaving a lasting impact on Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications industries.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie pursued his education in the United Kingdom, earning a BSc in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London. After returning to Nigeria in the early 1970s, he founded the African Development Consulting Group (ADCG), offering economic and management consultancy services.
In 1990, Dozie founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions before merging with Access Bank. His leadership extended far beyond the banking sector; he also served as a director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed profound sadness over Dozie’s death, describing him as “a rare breed business leader” whose contributions provided a foundation for future generations. Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, children, grandchildren, and a host of relatives.
His legacy as a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors remains enduring.
