Prominent world leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley, paid tribute to Access Holdings co-founder, Herbert Wigwe, during first remembrance ceremony held on Sunday in Lagos.
Wigwe, along with his wife, Doreen, son Chizi, and Nigerian Exchange Group Plc. Chairman, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert, near the California-Nevada border, on February 9, 2024.
In honor of his enduring legacy, a memorial ceremony took place at Eko Hotels and Suites, where family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate his life and contributions.
Among the distinguished attendees were 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, France’s Consul General in Lagos Laurent Favier, and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
President Tinubu, represented by Wale Edun, hailed Wigwe as more than a banker, describing him as a visionary leader.
“His years at Access Holdings transformed the bank into a global financial powerhouse, elevating Nigeria’s banking sector to new heights. His brilliance, resilience, and foresight positioned Access Bank as a major player, not just in Africa, but across the world,” Tinubu said.
He highlighted Wigwe’s deep commitment to philanthropy, particularly in education, youth empowerment, and healthcare. He also praised the Wigwe University project, which aimed to redefine higher education in Nigeria.
“His impact extended beyond boardrooms and balance sheets—he touched lives, created opportunities, and inspired hope. The loss of Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi has left a void that cannot be truly filled, but we take solace in his enduring legacy.”
French President Emmanuel Macron, through Consul General Laurent Favier, described Wigwe as a “friend of France” and an exceptional entrepreneur.
“As we mark the first anniversary of his passing, the government of France honors a man who served his country, advanced the public interest, and strengthened the bond between France and Nigeria. His character and commitment remain with us, and the best way to honor him is to carry forward his legacy.”
Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley reflected on Wigwe’s philosophy of fairness, authenticity, and fearless ambition.
“Herbert was a man of purpose and passion who saw obstacles not as barriers, but as challenges to overcome. When I first heard the tragic news a year ago, I desperately hoped it was fake. His vision for Wigwe University was inspiring, and though I couldn’t serve as its first Chancellor due to my office, I remain deeply connected to its mission.”
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, in a tribute delivered by Access Holdings Acting CEO Bolaji Agbede, recalled Wigwe’s relentless energy and dedication to Africa’s development.
“Herbert and his lifelong friend, Aigboje Aig-Imokhuede, turned Nigeria’s smallest bank into a financial giant. Their partnership was built on trust, respect, and shared vision. He was a leader who understood that true success isn’t just about building institutions but about building people.”
Obasanjo highlighted Wigwe’s role in expanding Access Bank’s reach to serve over 60 million customers globally, growing its assets from N2.1 trillion to N26.45 trillion by 2020.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described Wigwe as a man who refused to be limited by challenges.
“For more than three decades, I had the privilege of calling him a friend and brother. He was always building, always pushing boundaries, always believing in Nigeria and Africa’s ability to rise. His legacy is all around us, in the countless ideas he turned into reality.”
As tributes poured in from around the world, the ceremony served as a powerful reminder of Herbert Wigwe’s enduring influence—on business, society, and the future of Africa.
