French President, Emmanuel Macron; Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and many other eminent persons have paid glowing tributes to an erudite banker, philanthropist, and visionary leader, Dr. Herbert Wigwe who died recently.
Herbert Wigwe who died in a helicopter crash last Friday in the United States with his son and wife was the Co-founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc.
Wigwe was instrumental in the growth of Access Bank, which he co-founded with his friend and business partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede. He took over as Access Bank Group CEO in 2014, focusing on the Bank’s expansion in Nigeria and Africa before taking the helm at Access Holdings in 2022. Under his leadership, Access Bank drove its African strategy to become Sub Saharan Africa’s largest retail bank by customer base.
A two-time winner of the African Banker of the Year award from the African Banker Awards, Dr. Wigwe was a passionate advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which form the bedrock of Access Holdings’ growth strategy.
From all the tributes of the leaders below it is obvious that the country has lost a rare gem.
Tragedy that is shocking, beyond comprehension – President Bola Tinubu
Tinubu, in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, described the tragic event as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”
In the statement, Ngelale said, “President Tinubu prays for the peaceful repose of the departed and asks God Almighty to comfort the multitude of Nigerians who are grieving and the families of the deceased at this deeply agonizing moment.”
A man of prodigious intellect and admirable personal qualities – Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings
“The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.
We remain confident that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.”
He has written his name in gold – Managing Director/CEO, Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni
“Wigwe wrote his name in gold plate and his career was marked by excellence, vision, and a legacy that transcends beyond the financial world, and has left a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
“There is no doubt Herbert’s departure is a significant loss to all of us in the banking community. Personally, I have lost a friend, and I dare say there is a substantial depletion in the ranks of worthy ambassadors of our great profession, the business community, where Wigwe held sway for several years, and our dear country, Nigeria.
“As a bank, we express our deepest sympathy to Access Holdings, the entire banking community, and, most importantly, to the families, friends, and associates of Herbert Wigwe and the other victims. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all the way through this great storm,”
One of the brightest minds in Africa – Babajide Sanwo-Olu
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of my dear brother and friend, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his dear wife Doreen, and their beloved son Chizi in a helicopter crash.
“Herbert was not just a brother and visionary leader but one of the brightest minds in Africa. His impact on our nation and beyond will be remembered forever. My heart mourns.
“Herbert’s contributions to banking and the financial sector in Africa were unparalleled. He was an unapologetic believer in the Nigerian solution. His dedication and passion for progress inspired us all. Today, we mourn not just a leader but a true friend and brother. Lagos and Nigeria have lost a remarkable soul. Rest in peace, my brother.
“In this difficult time, our thoughts are with the families of all the victims, and we pray for strength and grace.”
A humanistic and talented entrepreneur -Emmanuel Macron, French President
“France has lost a friend, Herbert Wigwe, President of the French Nigeria Business Council. A humanistic and talented entrepreneur. He tirelessly worked to strengthen the relationship between our two countries. Our heartfelt thoughts go to his family and loved ones.”
Your legacy will live on forever- Femi Otedola, Chairman, First Bank Holdings
“I am shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of a banking genius Herbert Wigwe, his dear wife Chizoba and first son Chizi.
“Exactly two weeks ago Herbie and his wife hosted myself and Aliko to dinner at his newly built home in Lagos. I will cherish and fondly remember my memories of time spent together with him over the years.
“Herbie, we will all miss you. Your legacy will live on forever. My heartfelt condolences go out to his children Tochi, Hannah and David. I pray God comforts them during this tragic time. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace”
This loss is profoundly felt across the nation- Peter Obi, Former Governor, Anambra State
“I’m deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of my dear friend, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings, along with his wife and son, and another close friend, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former group chairman of NGX Group.
“This loss is profoundly felt across the nation. I first met Herbert during his early days, on the brink of starting his marital journey. I vividly remember assisting him in preparing for his traditional wedding and being there for the ceremony with his wife, Chizoba, from Achina, Anambra State.
“The loss of such an exceptional individual reminds us of life’s fleeting nature, encouraging us to live with a purpose that contributes to the betterment of humanity.
“My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Herbert, his beloved wife, his son, and all those who lost their lives in the tragic plane crash. May God grant them eternal rest and provide strength to Herbert’s family, Access Holdings, and all of us mourning this irreplaceable loss.”
You will be greatly missed – AKINWUMI ADESINA, AFDB President
“I am saddened by the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe, CEO and co-founder of Access Bank, his wife & son. He was a visionary and brilliant banker. May God comfort your aged parents, children, the Wigwe family and the staff and management of Access Bank. You will be greatly missed.”
A terrible loss- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, DG, World Trade Organisation (WTO)
“Terribly saddened by the news of the terrible loss of Herbert Wigwe… his wife and son as well as Bimbo Ogunbanjo in a helicopter crash.
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace,”