“We at Africa Legal extend our deepest condolences to the Nigerian business community and the families affected by the tragic loss of Herbert Wigwe, his wife Doreen Chizoba, and their son Chizi,” said Scott Cowan, CEO and co-founder of Africa Legal, in the wake of the crash. The accident also claimed the lives of the former group chairman of Nigeria’s stock exchange, Abimola Ogunbanjo, and two crew members.
“Their legacies are a testament to the impact of visionary leadership and community-focused initiatives in Nigeria’s development,” Cowan added. “As we mourn their loss, let’s also celebrate their contributions and the indelible marks they’ve left on the business world and beyond. In these moments of grief, our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues mourning this sudden and heartbreaking loss.”
The chartered helicopter was on its way from Palm Springs to Boulder City in Nevada, USA, when it went down about 96km from Las Vegas.
“Today, we say goodbye to a visionary leader, whose passion, excellence, and unwavering commitment transformed Access into a global powerhouse. His legacy of excellence and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Herbert’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to social impact initiatives have left an indelible mark on Access Holdings and the communities we serve. His legacy will never be forgotten,” read a statement from the company.
Wigwe co-founded Access Bank in 1989, and in 1998 the bank changed its legal status and became a public limited company and entered the Nigeria Stock Exchange. Access Bank acquired several small banks in other Sub-Saharan African countries over the years, in line with its expansion strategy, and at the end of 2022 it was Nigeria’s largest bank group, accounting for 16% of banking system assets.
It’s reported that Wigwe had been working to expand the bank further across the continent and that he was planning to open a new banking service in Asia in the first quarter of 2024. Wigwe was also in the process of starting his own educational institute, Wigwe University, which was set to launch in September 2024 in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
Tributes poured in on social media after his death, painting a picture of a well-respected, determined, visionary leader and philanthropist who was still happy to spend time talking to young people, encouraging them to work hard and follow their dreams.
Governor Babjide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said, “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.”
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