The tragic passing of Access Group Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe, on February 9, 2024, sent shockwaves across the world.

Wigwe died alongside his wife, Doreen, their son, Chizi, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc., Abimbola Ogunbanjo, in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert, near the California-Nevada border in the United States.

His sudden death deeply saddened the Nigerian business community, especially as he had recently launched Wigwe University before his passing.

While his demise left a gaping hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and well-wishers, tributes poured in at the event marking the first anniversary of his death.

The commemoration was attended by several dignitaries, including Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Sanusi Lamido; Consul General of France in Lagos, Laurent Favier; and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley.

In his message, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Wale Edun, described Wigwe as “more than just a banker; he was a builder of institutions, dreams, and people.”

The president further stated: “During his tenure at Access Holdings, he transformed the bank into a global financial powerhouse, elevating Nigeria’s banking sector to enviable heights. His brilliance, resilience, and foresight positioned Access Bank as a major player, not just in Africa but across the world, symbolizing the limitless potential of Nigerian enterprise.”

In his tribute, French President Emmanuel Macron, represented by Consul General Laurent Favier, described Wigwe as a friend of France.

“As we commemorate the first anniversary of his untimely death, the French government salutes an exceptional entrepreneur, a man who served his country and the public interest, and a true friend of France.”

“We will never forget that during the France-Nigeria Business Forum in 2023, he made a significant contribution to bilateral trade and strengthened the bond between our two nations.”

“His strength of character and unwavering commitment remain with us today. The best tribute we can offer is to keep his legacy alive.”

Who was Herbert Wigwe?

Herbert Wigwe was the former CEO of Access Bank. Alongside his business partner, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, he played a pivotal role in expanding the bank after acquiring it in 2002.

Despite facing challenges—including CBN’s initial resistance to young entrepreneurs owning and managing a bank—Wigwe and Aig-Imoukhuede persevered, and today, Access Bank stands as one of Nigeria’s top five banks.

The bank has also extended its operations to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, The Gambia, Guinea, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, France and the United Kingdom.

Beyond banking

Before his untimely death, Wigwe was passionately building Wigwe University, an institution designed to address Nigeria’s skills gap by offering world-class education.

In November 2023, he pledged a $500 million investment into the university, demonstrating his commitment to empowering future generations.

Although the university will continue operating in his absence, there are concerns about whether it will fully achieve his visionary aspirations.

Giving back to society

Mr Wigwe founded the Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Foundation (HOW Foundation) in 2016.

In 2016, Wigwe founded the Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Foundation (HOW Foundation), a non-profit organization focused on: Youth empowerment, Leadership development and Health initiatives (especially malaria and prostate cancer awareness)..]

The foundation has sponsored numerous educational programs, including the annual God’s Children Great Talent contest.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the HOW Foundation also provided food and relief packages to several communities across Nigeria.

A life that had changed lives

Beyond his achievements as a top banking executive, Wigwe was admired for his: Humility, Strong faith in God and Commitment to helping others

He inspired thousands and created employment opportunities for people across Africa, empowering countless families.

His sad passing

On February 9, 2024, Wigwe was among six people who lost their lives when their Eurocopter EC130 crashed near Nipton, California.

Those who perished alongside him included: his wife, Doreen Chizoba Wigwe, his 29-year-old son, Chizi Wigwe and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc.

He is survived by four children.

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