1 week ago
20
President Bola Tinubu, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley led a host of world leaders in honoring the late Herbert Wigwe, co-founder and CEO of Access Group, at his one-year remembrance ceremony in Lagos on Sunday.
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.
To commemorate his lasting legacy, a memorial event was held at Eko Hotels and Suites, where family members, friends, and dignitaries from across the world gathered to pay tribute. Among those in attendance were Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Sanusi Lamido, French Consul General in Lagos Laurent Favier, and Prime Minister Mottley.
Speaking through Edun, President Tinubu described Wigwe as more than a banker, he was an institution builder and a visionary. “His leadership 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 key player, not just in Africa but worldwide,” Tinubu said.
He further praised Wigwe’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and healthcare, noting that the Wigwe University project was a testament to his dedication to shaping the future. “His impact went beyond business, it was deeply felt in the lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the hope he inspired,” Tinubu added.
In his message, President Macron, through Favier, hailed Wigwe as a friend of France, acknowledging his contributions to strengthening Franco-Nigerian trade relations. “Herbert Wigwe was an exceptional entrepreneur who served his country and the public good. His legacy remains alive, and the best tribute we can give him is to continue his work,” Macron stated.
Prime Minister Mottley highlighted Wigwe’s philosophy of fairness and authenticity, emphasising his unwavering determination. “Herbert was driven by purpose and passion, seeing obstacles not as barriers but as part of life’s journey. His vision for Wigwe University reflected his belief that fear is the greatest hindrance to human progress,” she noted.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, in a tribute delivered by Access Holdings’ Acting CEO Bolaji Agbede, described Wigwe as a man of relentless energy and dedication to Africa’s development. He recalled Wigwe’s role in transforming Access Bank from Nigeria’s smallest bank into a financial giant alongside his business partner, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede.
Sanwo-Olu, reflecting on Wigwe’s legacy, praised his forward-thinking approach and unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential. “Herbert did not believe in small dreams or cautious steps. He saw what was possible and pursued it relentlessly. He built not just businesses, but people, ideas, and the future,” the governor stated.
The ceremony served as a powerful tribute to a man whose vision, leadership, and philanthropic efforts left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond.
English (US) ·