JUST IN: Pascal Dozie, Founder of Defunct Diamond Bank, Dies at 85

Nigerian business magnate and founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank, Pascal Dozie, has passed away at the age of 85. His family confirmed his death in a statement on Tuesday, revealing that he died on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Born on April 9, 1939, Dozie was raised in a devout Catholic household. His father, Charles Dozie, was a catechist, and the values of faith and discipline shaped much of his early life. He attended Our Lady’s School Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College in Owerri, where he completed his secondary education.

Driven by a desire for academic excellence, Dozie travelled to the United Kingdom for higher education. He earned a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics, followed by further studies in Operational Research and Industrial Engineering. He later obtained a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University, London.

Pascal Dozie was a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors. He founded Diamond Bank, which operated as a leading commercial bank before merging with Access Bank. He also served as the chairman of MTN Nigeria, helping steer the telecom giant’s growth and market leadership in the country.

His vision, leadership, and dedication to economic development earned him admiration across the public and private sectors. Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and their five children.