February 11, 2024/Access Holdings Plc
Access Holdings Plc has announced the death of its Group Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe, following an helicopter accident on Friday, February 9th, 2024, in the United States of America.
The statement signed by Sunday Ekwochi, the Group’s Company Secretary said Wigwe died alongside his wife and son.
“The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones. Dr Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the bank in 2002.” the statement reads.
Commenting on the passage of Dr. Wigwe, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings, said, “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe, who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience, which he brought to bear on the Access Family, and we owe him a debt of gratitude.”
The statement added, “In line with the Company’s policy, the Board will soon announce the appointment of an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer even as we remain confident that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy and operational excellence.”
Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former Chairman of the Nigeria Exchange Group (NGX) and a business partner of Wigwe, was equally involved in the helicopter accident.
Last week, the late Access Holding CEO and his partner, Ogunbanjo, discussed with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, to forge a groundbreaking partnership to elevate the nation’s airports to global standards.
Ogunbanjo’s death is a big loss to the Nigerian capital market community. He was the son of business and financial sector powerbroker Chief Chris Ogunbanjo.
Dr. Wigwe, CFR, will be remembered for accelerating the growth of Access Bank from 2014 as MD/CEO and anchoring the transition to the Financial Holding company (Holdco) structure in 2022.
