President Tinubu mourns Pascal Dozie, hailing him as a visionary whose legacy shaped Nigeria’s banking and telecom sectors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a trailblazing Nigerian entrepreneur, banker, and elder statesman, who died on April 8, 2025, a day before his 86th birthday.

Also read: Otunba Gbenga Daniel Mourns Alaye of Odogbolu, Oba Adedeji Onagoruwa

In a condolence message issued by his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu paid tribute to Chief Dozie’s exceptional life and legacy, describing him as “a rare breed business leader” who made transformative contributions to Nigeria’s economy and private sector growth.

“Chief Dozie was a steadfast believer in Nigeria’s vast potential. His wisdom, humility, and pioneering efforts laid a foundation upon which many continue to build. His passing is a profound loss to the private sector and to Nigeria,” the President said.

Tinubu highlighted Chief Dozie’s pivotal roles in developing Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors, especially as the founder of Diamond Bank and pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria.

He noted that Dozie’s leadership helped shape the financial services industry and expand access to mobile connectivity across the country.

Beyond the corporate world, Chief Dozie was also a national institution. He served as a director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, contributing to national policy formulation, youth empowerment, and private sector development.

“Chief Pascal Dozie was a visionary whose contributions to Nigeria’s economic architecture left an enduring legacy. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life of purpose, integrity, and national service,” President Tinubu stated.

He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Chief Dozie’s soul and extended heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, and extended family.

The President also called on the business community and the nation at large to honour Dozie’s memory by upholding the values of integrity, innovation, and nation-building for which he was widely respected.

Born on April 9, 1939, Chief Pascal Dozie carved out a distinguished career in Nigeria’s economic landscape, culminating in his leadership of several key national institutions.

He also served as the Chairman of Pan-Atlantic University, further cementing his role as a builder of knowledge, enterprise, and leadership.

His death marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue to inspire generations to come.