MTN Nigeria and MTN Group have announced the passing of Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, the founding Chairman of MTN Nigeria and one of Nigeria’s most respected business leaders. The company expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing him as a visionary whose contributions were instrumental to the growth of Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
Dr. Dozie, fondly known as PGD, played a pivotal role in launching MTN Nigeria’s operations in 2001 and remained Chairman of the Board until 2019. Under his leadership, MTN grew from a startup entrant into one of Africa’s most influential telecommunications companies.
“It was Dr. Dozie who made the first official call on the MTN Nigeria network on May 16, 2001, a moment that marked the beginning of a new era for mobile communication in the country,” the company said in a statement.
MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, hailed Dr. Dozie’s leadership and belief in Nigeria’s potential. “His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s future and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring,” said Toriola. “His leadership laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us for years to come.”
Some of Dr. Dozie’s notable contributions to MTN Nigeria include the establishment of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004, the launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010, his leadership during the 2015 regulatory crisis, the introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018, and the company’s landmark listing on the Nigerian Exchange’s Premium Board in 2019.
Ralph Mupita, President and CEO of MTN Group, also paid tribute to Dr. Dozie’s legacy. “He was instrumental in our expansion into Nigeria. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we proudly continue to uphold,” Mupita said.
Beyond MTN, Dr. Dozie had a far-reaching impact across various sectors of Nigeria’s economy. He was the founder of Diamond Bank (now part of Access Bank), a former Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and a past Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. His influence spanned finance, education, public service, and entrepreneurship, and he mentored numerous professionals who today hold key positions across industries.
Honoured nationally with the titles of Officer and Commander of the Order of the Niger (OON and CON), Dr. Dozie was remembered by colleagues as a quiet but firm leader, deeply principled and respected.
“He was a calm force in turbulent times, a strategic thinker, and a warm, thoughtful leader,” MTN’s statement read. “We are profoundly grateful for the time we shared with him. His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and all who share his commitment to building a better future.”
Dr. Pascal Dozie is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
