Pascal Dozie Laid Cornerstone for MTN Nigeria, Says CEO Toriola

Karl Toriola, chief executive officer of MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, said Pascal Dozie, who died on Tuesday at the age of 85, laid the cornerstone for the company.

“It is with profound respect that I join many across Nigeria and beyond in mourning the passing of our pioneer Chairman, Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, fondly known as PGD,” he said on LinkedIn.

He pointed out that Dozie was not only a business leader and corporate titan, he was also “an icon of the GSM revolution because of his visionary, pivotal role in the start of MTN’s operations in Nigeria”.

He said his foresight, wisdom, and belief in Nigeria’s potential were instrumental in bringing the MTN dream to life in the nation.

Toriola said: “PGD laid the cornerstone for what would become one of Nigeria’s most impactful brands. His guidance shaped the values we continue to hold dear today: integrity, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility towards the communities we serve.

“Beyond the boardroom, he was a mentor to many and a true gentleman in every sense. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, including mine, the institutions he helped build, and the future he tirelessly worked to shape for Nigeria.

“Thank you, PGD, for showing us what it means to lead with purpose, humility, and conviction.”