…A Steady Hand, An Enduring Legacy
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, founding Chairman of MTN Nigeria and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
A pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry, Dr. Dozie played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria and in shaping the MTN Nigeria story.
He brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential and was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life.
On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.
From 2001 to and 2019, Dr. Dozie led MTN Nigeria as Chairman for 18years, unifying the Board with his strength and conviction, championing good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, while remaining a stabilising force in challenging times.
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“His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring while his leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come,” Karl Toriola, CEO, MTN Nigeria.
Some of his landmark contributions include:
- Incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004 and our commitment to dedicating a percentage of profit after tax to social investments;
- The launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010;
- His significant role in 2015 during critical conversations around the regulatory fine and its resolution;
- Introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018;
- MTN Nigeria’s listing in 2019 on the premium board of the Nigerian Exchange.
“Dr. Dozie was instrumental in MTN Group’s expansion into Nigeria, providing visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our company’s history while his commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we continue to uphold,” Ralph Mupita, President & CEO, MTN Group.
His legacy goes well beyond MTN because he believed in Nigeria’s potential as such he dedicated his life to building a stronger nation. His impact spanned banking, telecommunications, education, and public service.
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He founded Diamond Bank, led the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and served as Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, among many other distinguished roles and as a generous mentor, he inspired and guided countless individuals who continue to uphold the values he lived by.
He was a quiet revolutionary. He could ease tensions with grace and consistently led with clarity and conviction. He was warm, principled, and deeply respected by all who encountered him.
Fondly known as PGD, he was honoured with the national awards of Officer and Commander of the Order of the Niger (OON and CON). Beyond the accolades, what we remember most is the man himself. He was innovative, dedicated, measured, thoughtful and humble.
We are profoundly grateful for his time with us. His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and everyone who shares his unwavering commitment to progress built on integrity and service.
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