MTN Nigeria Mourns Founding Chairman, Pascal Dozie
BY MOTOLANI OSENI
MTN Nigeria has announced the passing of its founding chairman, Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, a revered business leader whose vision and leadership helped transform Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape.
The company, alongside MTN Group, expressed deep sorrow while paying tribute to a man hailed as a pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry.
Dozie played a critical role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria, leading MTN Nigeria from its inception in 2001 until 2019. His guidance during the company’s formative years helped secure the early support and investment needed to realize the “Y’ello” dream. On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, an iconic moment marking the dawn of a new era for Nigerian communications.
CEO of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, in a press statement said, his unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring, adding that his leadership laid the foundation for the Company’s success.
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Among his many contributions, Dozie oversaw the incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004, spearheaded the launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centers in 2010, and played a pivotal role during the regulatory fine crisis in 2015. Under his watch, MTN introduced Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018 and listed on the Nigerian Exchange’s premium board in 2019.
President & CEO of MTN Group, Ralph Mupita, added that, “Dozie was instrumental in MTN Group’s expansion into Nigeria. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard we continue to uphold.”
Beyond MTN, Dozie’s legacy extended into banking, education, and public service. He founded Diamond Bank, chaired the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and served as Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria. He was also a cherished mentor and role model, fondly remembered for his humility, grace, and quiet strength.
Nationally honored with the titles of Officer and Commander of the Order of the Niger (OON and CON), Dozie was known simply to many as PGD—a symbol of innovation, principle, and unshakable faith in Nigeria’s future.
“His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and everyone who shares his commitment to progress built on integrity and service,” Mupita averred.
