Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a towering figure in Nigerian banking and a visionary entrepreneur, passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 85. His family, led by his son Uzoma Dozie, announced his passing, expressing gratitude for his impactful life dedicated to family, faith, and country. Dozie’s legacy is deeply entwined with the evolution of Nigeria’s financial landscape, particularly the rise of retail banking and digital innovation within the sector. He leaves behind a wife, Chinyere, children, grandchildren, and a vast network of individuals inspired by his leadership and mentorship.
Dozie is widely recognized for his instrumental role in revolutionizing retail banking in Nigeria. Ken Opara, the immediate past president of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, credited Dozie with pioneering the development of retail banking in the country and mentoring numerous banking professionals. Opara highlighted Dozie’s meticulousness, forthrightness, and strong belief in the importance of due diligence within the banking industry. Dozie’s contribution extended to establishing a new generation of banks, most notably Diamond Bank, which thrived under his leadership and became a prominent retail and digital banking institution. His impact on the sector resonates even after his passing, solidifying his reputation as an icon and innovator.
Teslim Shitta-Bey, Chief Economist/Managing Editor of Proshare Nigeria, described Dozie as a “quintessential economist and banker” with a profound understanding of finance’s role in continental growth. He emphasized Dozie’s broad perspective, viewing banking not merely as a profession but as a vocation dedicated to addressing complex financial challenges. Shitta-Bey lauded Dozie’s ability to see the bigger picture, his technical brilliance, and his dedication to social responsibility. He mourned the loss of a remarkable banker and financial thinker who approached his work with a strong sense of purpose.
Boniface Chizea, CEO of BIC Consultancy Services, traced Dozie’s remarkable journey in the banking sector, highlighting his early exposure to international financial institutions. Chizea noted Dozie’s successful leadership as Chairman of Imo State Progress Bank and his pivotal role in founding Diamond Bank, which established a widespread network of branches across Nigeria. Dozie was a passionate advocate for private-public sector collaboration to foster economic growth and development in Nigeria. His vocal advocacy earned him national recognition and honors. Chizea lamented the loss of a valuable icon whose insights and experience contributed significantly to Nigeria’s banking and economic environment.
Frank Nweke, a former minister, expressed his deep sorrow over Dozie’s demise. Nweke, via his LinkedIn page, highlighted Dozie’s commitment to good governance and Nigeria’s economic progress through his active involvement as a founding member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. This further underscores Dozie’s influence beyond the banking sector, demonstrating a deep dedication to national development and progress. His contributions extend beyond the purely economic sphere, encompassing a broader commitment to the overall betterment of Nigeria.
Dr. Ola Brown, founder of Healthcap Africa, further eulogized Dozie on LinkedIn, describing him as a trailblazer and icon who left a profound legacy in the Nigerian banking industry. Brown emphasized Dozie’s visionary leadership, strong work ethic, and unwavering determination. Beyond his accomplishments, she highlighted his profound impact on individuals who worked with him at Diamond Bank, specifically mentioning the mentorship and training he provided in critical areas like credit management. Dozie’s legacy continues to inspire and enrich the lives of those he influenced, extending far beyond his immediate family.
