Tinubu, Obi, others mourn boardroom icon Pascal Dozie

Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of one of its most illustrious business figures, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, who died at the age of 85. An elder statesman, banker and entrepreneur. Dozie leaves behind an indelible mark on Nigeria’s economic landscape.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement released by the State House on Tuesday, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Dozie as “a rare breed business leader whose wisdom, humility, and pioneering efforts laid a foundation upon which many continue to build.”

Read also: Pascal Dozie: The visionary who banked on Nigeria’s future

Dozie (OON), was best known as the founder of Diamond Bank and the pioneer chairman of MTN Nigeria. His instrumental role in transforming Nigeria’s banking and telecommunications sectors cemented his reputation as a transformative force in the country’s development.

“His contributions to Nigeria’s economic architecture left an enduring legacy,” President Tinubu noted, adding that Dozie’s leadership extended beyond the corporate world into national service. The late entrepreneur previously served as a director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.

Read also: Diamond Bank founder, Pascal Dozie dies at 86

President Tinubu offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Chief Dozie’s soul and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, urging the Nigerian private sector to honor Dozie’s legacy by upholding the values of integrity, innovation, and nation-building.

Peter Obi

Joining the chorus of tributes is Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate, who shared a heartfelt message on Tuesday morning, describing Dozie as a man he “held in high esteem.”

“I met him during the formation of Diamond Bank and later MTN Nigeria, and throughout our collaboration, I came to know him as a true gentleman and a teacher who always sought the good of all,” Obi said.

Read also: UPDATE: MTN appoints Ernest Ndukwe as new chairman, as Pascal Dozie, others exit board

Reflecting on Dozie’s enduring influence, Obi added, “His legacy as a banker and entrepreneur stands as a testament to his vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence. He inspired countless individuals and businesses.”

Obi concluded his tribute with prayers for divine comfort for the Dozie family and for strength to all those mourning the loss. “May God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest in His kingdom, and grant his family and all of us who mourn him the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss,” he said.

Dozie’s life and career spanned decades of trailblazing leadership, mentorship, and a deep-seated belief in Nigeria’s potential.