President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dozie family, the business community, and all Nigerians on the passing of Mr Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a renowned entrepreneur and banker, at the age of 85.
Born on April 9, 1939, Dozie was a visionary leader who left an enduring legacy in Nigeria’s economic architecture.
A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership
Dozie’s contributions to Nigeria’s development journey were multifaceted:
- Founder of Diamond Bank: He founded the now-defunct Diamond Bank, which later merged with Access Bank, and served as its chairman before handing over to his son, Uzoma Dozie.
- Pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria: He played a pivotal role in expanding access to mobile connectivity nationwide as the chairman of MTN Nigeria.
- Influential Leadership: Dozie’s leadership extended beyond corporate boardrooms, with roles as a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
A Tribute from the President
President Tinubu praised Dozie as “a rare breed business leader whose wisdom, humility, and pioneering efforts laid a foundation upon which many continue to build.” He called upon the Nigerian private sector to honor Dozie’s memory by upholding the values of integrity, innovation, and nation-building.
Condolences and Legacy
The President prays for the peaceful repose of Mr Dozie’s soul and extends his condolences to his wife, Chinyere, and their five children. Dozie’s legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur and influential leader in Nigeria’s business landscape will undoubtedly endure.