Pascal Gabriel Dozie (9 April 1939 – 8 April 2025) was a respected Nigerian economist, entrepreneur, and corporate leader renowned for his pivotal role in shaping the modern Nigerian banking and telecommunications landscape. Best known as the founder of Diamond Bank and the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, Dozie’s contributions to national development spanned over five decades and left a legacy of innovation, integrity, and impactful leadership. His death, which occurred just a day before his 86th birthday, marked the end of an era in Nigeria’s business history.
Pascal Dozie Profile
| Name | Pascal Dozie |
| Real Name | Pascal Gabriel Dozie |
| Date of Birth | 9 April 1939 |
| Date of Death | 8 April 2025 (86 years) |
| State of Origin | Imo State |
| Tribe | Igbo |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Economist and Entrepreneur |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $1 Billion |
| Copied from | contents101.com |
Educational Background
Pascal Dozie began his academic journey at Our Lady’s School, Emekuku, before proceeding to Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary and Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where he completed his secondary education.
He later moved to the United Kingdom to further his studies, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics. He deepened his expertise by studying Operational Research and Industrial Engineering and later obtained a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London.
Career
Dozie’s professional life began in the United Kingdom, where he worked as an economist at the National Economic Development Office. He also lectured part-time at North Western Polytechnic, London. His career took him briefly to Uganda as a consulting economist for the African States Consulting Organisation before returning to Nigeria in 1971. Upon his return, he founded the African Development Consulting Group (ADCG), offering advisory services to major multinational companies like Nestlé and Pfizer.
In 1985, he was appointed chairman of the then Progress Bank. Later that year, driven by the desire to address the financial challenges faced by traders in Eastern Nigeria, Dozie applied for a banking licence. This led to the creation of Diamond Bank. With a modest capital of ₦10 million and just 21 shareholders at its inception, Diamond Bank grew into one of the most reputable banks in Nigeria. He led the bank as its Chief Executive Officer until 2006, when he handed over to his son, Uzoma Dozie.
Beyond banking, Dozie also played a foundational role in Nigeria’s telecommunications revolution. He served as the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria, helping steer the company into one of the largest and most successful telecom operators in Africa. He also held the position of President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange at one point in his illustrious career.
Controversies
Despite his towering presence in the banking and telecom sectors, Pascal Dozie maintained a reputation largely free from scandal or controversy. He was widely respected for his ethical leadership, humility, and commitment to national development. If anything, some criticism arose over the eventual merger of Diamond Bank with Access Bank, a decision seen by some as the end of an era, but there were no personal controversies tied to him directly.
Personal Life
Pascal Dozie was a devoted Catholic and a man deeply committed to his family. He was married to Chinyere Dozie, and together they had five children. Known for his calm demeanor, intellectual depth, and humility, he remained a strong moral compass within his family and community. His life was marked by service—to his faith, his family, and his country.
Pascal Dozie Net Worth
Pascal Dozie’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 Billion during his lifetime.
Death
Pascal Gabriel Dozie passed away peacefully in the early hours of 8 April 2025, just one day from his 86th birthday. His death was confirmed in an official statement released by his family, signed by his son, Uzoma Dozie. The statement described him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.