The immediate past Governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, CON, has expressed grief over the death of renowned entrepreneur and elder statesman, Mr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie CON, who he described as “an Iroko from the East” whose transition has left a significant void in Nigeria’s corporate and leadership space.
Ihedioha, in a condolence message made available to newsmen on Monday, said the news of Mr. Dozie’s demise reverberated across the country, casting a shadow of grief over all who knew and drew inspiration from him.
“Fondly called Nda Pascal by his people, he was not just a titan in the corporate world but also a pillar of wisdom, integrity, and quiet strength,” Ihedioha stated.
He highlighted Dozie’s exceptional contributions to the Nigerian economy, recalling his roles as the founding Chairman of Diamond Bank PLC, former Chairman of MTN Nigeria, former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, among many other notable positions.
“Beyond boardrooms and titles, Nda Pascal was a true elder statesman — a distinguished entrepreneur of rare pedigree, a mentor to many, and a beacon of excellence and humility. His legacy is etched not only in the institutions he built but also in the countless lives he touched, uplifted, and inspired,” the statement read.
Ihedioha, who leads the Rebuild Imo political movement, noted that the late Dozie, until his death was one of Imo State’s finest ambassadors, projecting the state in a positive light and mentoring generations of business leaders across Nigeria and beyond.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to Dozie’s wife, Aunty Mabel; his children, including Uzoma and his siblings; the larger Dozie family of Egbu; and the people of Owerri and Imo State at large.
“May the Almighty grant his soul eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear this immense loss,” Ihedioha prayed.
Pascal Dozie, a respected figure in Nigeria’s financial and telecommunications sectors, was celebrated for his visionary leadership, calm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His death marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s private sector development.
