Corporate Nigeria and political titans from across the country converged in Lagos to pay tribute to the late Chief Executive Officer of Access Corporation Plc, Herbert Wigwe, in a grand ‘Night of Tributes’ that celebrated his life and legacy. The event was a poignant reflection of Wigwe’s immense impact on the banking industry and his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development.
The ceremony, held at a prestigious venue in Lagos, was attended by dignitaries from the public and private sectors, led by Africa’s renowned industrialist, Aliko Dangote, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and governors of Lagos and Ogun states. Also in attendance were the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, and a host of other bank chief executives, who joined in celebrating the remarkable life of the late banking icon.
Herbert Wigwe, who also served as the MD/CEO of Access Bank Plc, tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in the United States on February 9, 2024, alongside his wife, Chizoba Wigwe, his son, Chizi Wigwe, and former President of the Nigeria Exchange, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo. His passing marked the end of an era for Nigeria’s banking industry and left a void that will be difficult to fill.
During the emotional tribute session, Aliko Dangote fought back tears as he reminisced about his close friendship with the late Herbert Wigwe. Dangote described Wigwe as a loyal friend and a pillar of support, recounting how Wigwe had encouraged him in his business endeavors. He announced plans to immortalize the late banker by naming the road leading to the Dangote Refinery as Herbert Wigwe Road, as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Adesina Akinwunmi, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), praised Wigwe for bringing pride to Nigeria and Africa, describing him as relentless, determined, and visionary. He highlighted Wigwe’s exceptional drive for excellence, noting that everything he touched turned to gold. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Coronation Capital, lauded Wigwe as a brilliant banker who helped transform the Nigerian banking industry.
Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, described Wigwe as a pillar of support, full of knowledge, ideas, and creative thinking. He recalled how Wigwe always had solutions and never failed to offer his time and expertise. Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, paid glowing tributes to Wigwe’s leadership qualities, especially his role in rallying support to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. He described Wigwe as a brother, friend, and advisor, who supported the infrastructure drive of his administration.
Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, praised Wigwe for his unwavering belief in Nigeria and his commitment to supporting the country’s development. He described Wigwe as intelligent, bold, and someone who lived two lifetimes in one. CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, described Wigwe as a truly exceptional individual who played a pivotal role in transforming Access Bank into one of Nigeria’s foremost financial institutions.
Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GT Holdings, shared his personal connection with the late Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a colleague, friend, competitor, and brother. He recalled their last conversation, highlighting Wigwe’s fierce competitiveness and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
The ‘Night of Tributes’ underscored Herbert Wigwe’s immense impact and legacy, with many acknowledging his role as a transformative leader in Nigeria’s banking sector. His passing has left a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of bankers and business leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
