Dr. Pascal Gabriel Chukwudozie, a renowned Nigerian banker and entrepreneur, passed away on April 8, at the age of 85, a day to his birthday.

The tycoon who hailed from Owerri in Imo state died a day to his birthday after a brief illness.

Pascal was the founder of Diamond Bank, previously held the position of President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and served as Chairman of MTN, served as a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.

His death led to widespread mourning, with tributes from President Tinubu, business leaders, and the public, celebrating his integrity, vision, and contributions to banking and telecommunications.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his condolence message to the deceased family, extol his virtue, described him as “a rare breed business leader whose 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 Nigeria.”

Tinubu stressed that Dr. Dozie was a steadfast believer in Nigeria’s vast potential, was pivotal in shaping the financial services industry and expanding access to mobile connectivity nationwide. His influential leadership extended well beyond corporate boardrooms.

The President prays for the peaceful repose of Chief Dozie’s soul and extends his condolences to his wife, children, and extended family. He calls upon the Nigerian private sector to honour Chief Dozie’s memory by upholding the values of integrity, innovation, and nation-building, for which he was renowned.

The 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi expressed sadness over the demise of the elder state-man as he prayed for the repose of the dead

His post read:“I am deeply saddened this morning by the news of the passing of Dr Pascal Dozie, a man I 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.

“His legacy as a banker and entrepreneur stands as a testament to his vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence inspired countless individuals, and businesses.

“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.

“God Almighty bless his family always.” Obi prayed