The South East caucus in the Senate has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former chairman of Diamond Bank and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s financial sector, Dr. Pascal Dozie.
In a statement by the chairman of the caucus, yesterday, Sen Enyinnaya Abaribe, the lawmakers described Dr. Dozie as a banking guru and an economist of high repute, whose death is a significant loss to the nation.
“Dr. Pascal Dozie was an icon and a foresighted economist, who chaired not only Diamond Bank but also MTN, one of the world’s leading communication companies. He was one of the steady hands in the economic circle that shaped the macro-economic landscape of Nigeria and Africa,” the statement read.
Abaribe noted that Dozie’s contributions as a pathfinder in the banking industry and his role in national development would be sorely missed. He also described him as a great son of Igboland, an illustrious Nigerian and a beacon of transparent financial management.
The caucus extended its condolences to the deceased’s family, the banking industry, the government and people of Imo State and the entire nation.
In his reaction, former governor of Abia State and senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, paid glowing tribute, describing him as a patriotic Nigerian and a distinguished statesman, who contributed immensely to national development.
Kalu commiserated with the family, friends and associates of the late elder statesman, noting that his death was a great loss to the country.
“Chief Pascal Dozie was a man of wisdom, peace and honour. He was a dedicated technocrat with great courage and determination, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and patriotism,” Kalu said.
He urged the Dozie family to take solace in the remarkable life he lived and the positive impact he made in the private sector.
Senator Kalu prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and asked God to grant the bereaved family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma also expressed sorrow over the death of Dozie who he described as a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and one of Imo State’s brightest stars.
In a statement he personally signed, Uzodimma eulogised Dozie, and recalled that he made Nigeria proud when he founded Diamond Bank and still went ahead to co-invest in MTN Nigeria.
He praised the late entrepreneur for his exceptional business acumen, saying that his legacies would surely endure.
Uzodimma said with his death, Nigeria and Imo State have lost a dependable economic guru.
While extending his heartfelt condolences to the family of the departed, the governor prayed for the repose of his soul.
Credit: The Sun