President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and renowned entrepreneur, Chief (Dr.) Pascal Gabriel Dozie, OON, who died at the age of 85.
In a heartfelt condolence message, President Tinubu extended sympathies to the Dozie family, Nigeria’s business community, and the entire nation, describing the late Chief Dozie as “a rare breed business leader whose wisdom, humility, and pioneering efforts laid a foundation upon which many continue to build.”
The President hailed Chief Dozie’s immense contributions to the development of Nigeria’s economy, recalling his visionary roles in shaping the country’s financial and telecommunications landscapes.
“As the founder of Diamond Bank and the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Chief Dozie was at the forefront of two of the most transformative sectors in Nigeria’s development journey,” Tinubu said.
A staunch believer in Nigeria’s vast potential, Chief Dozie’s influence extended beyond boardrooms. He served as a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, contributing significantly to national policy, youth empowerment, and private sector development.
President Tinubu remarked that the late business icon “dedicated decades of his life to building institutions, shaping policy, and empowering young entrepreneurs,” adding that “his passing is a profound loss to the private sector and Nigeria.”
The President prayed for the peaceful repose of Chief Dozie’s soul and urged the private sector to honour his memory by upholding the values he championed.
“I call on all who have been inspired by his work to sustain his legacy through integrity, innovation, and commitment to nation-building,” he added.
Chief Dozie is survived by his wife, children, and extended family.