Tributes are pouring in from across Nigeria’s banking and business sectors following the death of Pascal Dozie, founder of the now-defunct Diamond Bank, who passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, just a day before his 86th birthday.
The news of his death was announced by his son, Uzoma Dozie, in a statement issued on behalf of the family.
“With deep sorrow, but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Pascal Gabriel Dozie,” the statement read. “He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of unwavering Catholic faith.”
Dozie, a respected banker, economist, and entrepreneur, was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern retail banking in Nigeria. He founded Diamond Bank in 1990, which eventually merged with Access Bank in 2019. Over the years, Dozie mentored many young professionals, including his son Uzoma, who later became CEO of Diamond Bank.
The immediate past president of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Dr. Ken Opara, described Dozie as a revolutionary figure in the banking industry.
“He did well. He was one of the people who revolutionised banking in Nigeria, particularly retail banking,” Opara said. “He was meticulous and believed there was no shortcut in banking. His legacy lives on.”
Teslim Shitta-Bey, Chief Economist and Managing Editor at Proshare Nigeria, described Dozie as a “quintessential economist and banker.” According to him, “He was dapper, technically brilliant, and socially responsible. The world will miss Dr. Dozie, a financial thinker with a cause.”
Boniface Chizea, CEO of BIC Consultancy Services, praised Dozie’s deep experience and his time as chairman of Imo State Progress Bank. “He established a promising indigenous bank with a solid network across Nigeria. His voice was firm and reassuring, and he was a strong advocate for private-public partnerships in driving national growth,” Chizea said.
Frank Nweke, a former minister, also shared his condolences on LinkedIn, calling Dozie a “visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder of Diamond Bank.” He noted Dozie’s dedication to economic growth as a founding member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
Dr. Ola Brown, founder of Healthcap Africa, described him as a trailblazer. “He inspired and mentored many professionals, especially in credit management, helping them to build careers and support their families. His legacy continues through the lives he touched,” she said.
Born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Pascal Dozie grew up in a Catholic household. His father, Charles Dozie, was a catechist, and the values of discipline and service followed him throughout his career.
Dozie received a national honour in recognition of his service to Nigeria’s financial industry. He was also known for his philanthropy, mentorship, and dedication to Nigeria’s economic development.
He is survived by his wife, Chinyere, children, grandchildren, and a legacy that will continue to influence Nigeria’s banking and business landscape.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
