... Celebrates Legacy of Vision and Integrity
MTN Nigeria has honoured the memory of its founding Chairman, Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, who passed away at the age of 85, describing him as a steady, wise, and gentle leader whose influence shaped the company’s journey and success.
In a statement issued today, Karl Toriola, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, highlighted Dozie’s unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his steadfast commitment to its development.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, founding Chairman of MTN Nigeria.
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,” said Toriola.
Toriola praised Dozie’s instrumental role in securing early support and investment for MTN, describing his leadership as the bedrock on which the company was built.
He recalled that on May 16, 2001, it was Dozie who made the first call on the MTN network—an iconic milestone in Nigeria’s telecommunications history. Dozie went on to serve as Chairman from 2001 to 2019, guiding the company through periods of growth and challenge alike.
“In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force,” Toriola said, reflecting on Dozie’s unifying presence on the Board and his commitment to good governance and corporate responsibility.
Among his lasting contributions were the establishment of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004, the launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010, and his pivotal role during regulatory negotiations in 2015. He also played a key part in the introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018 and MTN Nigeria’s listing on the Nigerian Exchange in 2019.
Ralph Mupita, Group President and CEO of MTN Group, also paid tribute to Dozie’s profound influence on the company and the nation.
“He provided visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our company’s history. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we continue to uphold. His legacy goes well beyond MTN, he believed in Nigeria’s potential and dedicated his life to building a stronger nation. His impact spanned banking, telecommunications, education and public service. He founded Diamond Bank, led the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and served as a Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria, among many other distinguished roles,” Mupita said.
He described Dozie as a generous mentor and a quiet revolutionary who led with grace and clarity.
“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 who 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,” Mupita added.
Echoing the sentiment, MTN’s Chief Corporate Relations Officer, Tobe Okigbo, remembered Dozie as a guiding presence whose wisdom shaped the company’s direction.
At the MTN Champs Season 3.0 news conference, Okigbo said:
“As a wise and gentle soul, Dozie understood the dynamics of various colleagues and was a truly influential figure,” noting that his counsel left a lasting impression on the company.
MTN’s tribute underscores the breadth of Pascal Dozie’s impact—not just on the telecoms giant he helped build, but on Nigeria’s broader economic and developmental landscape. His legacy of leadership, humility, and nation-building will continue to inspire generations to come.
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