Raymond Dokpesi is a prominent entrepreneur and media tycoon from Nigeria. He was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria on October 25, 1951, and hails from Agenebode, Edo State. Dokpesi is chiefly recognized for founding and managing Daar Communications PLC, a media enterprise that possesses and oversees multiple Nigerian television and radio stations.
Raymond Dokpesi Biography & Profile Overview
| Name | Raymond Dokpesi |
| Born | 25 October 1951 (age 71) |
| Died | May 29, 2023 |
| Place of Death | Ibadan, Oyo State |
| Political party | People’s Democratic Party |
| Alma mater | University of Gdańsk |
| Website | raymonddokpesi.com |
Raymond Dokpesi Age
He was 71 years old at the point of his passing
Raymond Dokpesi Education & Early Career
Dokpesi completed his primary and secondary education at Loyola College in Ibadan. He furthered his studies at Immaculate Conception College (ICC) in Benin City, where he founded a dance/drama collective.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering from the University of Benin in Edo State and a master’s degree in marine engineering from the University of Gdansk in Poland. Notably, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur supported his education financially, showcasing his belief in his potential.
Dokpesi’s journey in Nigeria’s media landscape was characterized by his acumen. He launched DAAR Communications, which evolved into a key player in the mass media domain.
Under its banner, he established Africa Independent Television (AIT), Nigeria’s inaugural private television network. This initiative transformed the nation’s media landscape.
Dokpesi’s entrepreneurial flair reached beyond television. He also initiated Raypower FM, the country’s first privately-owned radio station, and the Nigerian Compass newspaper.
Beyond media, Dokpesi engaged in Nigerian politics, being an influential member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and taking on various roles in the party.
The AIT and Daar Communications Plc
Daar Communications Plc, a media entity established by Raymond Dokpesi in 1989, has ascended to rank among Nigeria’s leading media firms. It owns the Africa Independent Television (AIT) network, one of the largest private television outlets in the country. AIT is renowned for its comprehensive news reporting, captivating programs, and insightful documentaries.
Raymond Dokpesi Family
Raymond Dokpesi is a devoted family man, with his loved ones holding significant importance in his life. He is married to Angela Dokpesi, and together they have several offspring.
Raymond Dokpesi’s children have established their own reputations across various domains, continuing the family legacy of accomplishment.
Raymond Dokpesi Children
Raymond has adult children, among whom one stands out: Regina Dokpesi. Regina works as an on-air personality for DAAR Communications Plc, her father’s media establishment.
Raymond Dokpesi Wives
Raymond Dokpesi, the Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, has encountered various personal challenges. Due to familial conflicts, he made the regrettable choice of entering polygamy, which he now regards as one of his most significant life errors.
Dokpesi had been married to several women in the past, and his second marriage arose from household issues. He admits that, as a faithful Catholic, he never intended for polygamy but felt compelled to accept it due to circumstances.
Despite his complex marital situation, Dokpesi holds a special place for his first wife, a Polish immigrant, whom he had aspired to be with for a lifetime. However, they lived separately as she was the only child of her parents in Poland.
Raymond Dokpesi Philanthropy
Raymond Dokpesi has established community schools and offered scholarships to aspiring students aiming for tertiary education.
Raymond Dokpesi Criticism and Controversy
Dokpesi was apprehended on October 4, 2010, for his purported involvement in an Abuja car bombing. After nine hours in custody, he was released and subsequently filed a lawsuit against the nation’s intelligence agency for alleged wrongful detention.
On 11 November 2015, Dokpesi publicly apologized on behalf of the PDP for the mismanagement of Nigeria during the PDP administrations.
“Make no mistake, the PDP acknowledges that errors were made along the way.” We concede that we erred in the past and did not always meet Nigerians’ expectations. We sincerely apologize. But that is precisely what the past is. We beseech all party members, supporters, and well-wishers to collaborate with us moving forward.
He also criticized the PDP for nominating Jonathan Goodluck as its presidential candidate in the March 2015 elections.
Raymond Dokpesi – Health Challenges and COVID-19 Survival
Raymond Dokpesi has recently contended with health challenges that have impacted both his personal life and professional path. He suffered a stroke in 2017, necessitating extensive medical attention and rehabilitation. Nevertheless, he demonstrated resilience and determination in his recovery.
In 2020, Dokpesi and some family members tested positive for COVID-19. Despite the severity of the virus, he survived and leveraged his experience to promote awareness about the pandemic’s ramifications.
Raymond Dokpesi Cause of Death
Family members indicated that Dokpesi passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Abuja. He had experienced a stroke following fasting during Ramadan and was recuperating.
During a regular gym session, he encountered electrocution while utilizing the equipment, leading to a stroke and ultimately, his demise.
Raymond Dokpesi Net Worth
Raymond Dokpesi’s contributions to the media sector, combined with his entrepreneurial pursuits, have propelled him to financial prosperity. He became one of Nigeria’s most influential and affluent businessmen, with an estimated net worth of $50 million.
