Bisina SomtoOn February 9, 2024, the world lost a visionary Nigerian banker and entrepreneur, Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe CFR. He was the CEO of Access Holdings Plc, traded as Access Corporation until his untimely passing. Here are 10 key facts about his life and legacy:
Early Life and Education
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe CFR, born on August 15, 1966, was a distinguished Nigerian banker and entrepreneur. He obtained a degree in accountancy from the University of Nigeria, further pursuing an MA in Banking and Finance from the University College of North Wales (now Bangor), and an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London. His educational journey also included attending the Harvard Business School Executive Management Program.
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Wigwe commenced his professional journey at Coopers & Lybrand in Lagos, initially as a management consultant. Eventually, he became a chartered accountant.
His career trajectory led him to Capital Bank before joining GTBank. During his tenure at GTBank, spanning over a decade, he ascended through the ranks, ultimately serving as the executive director in charge of institutional banking.
Co-Founding Access Bank
In 2002, Wigwe, alongside his business partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, acquired shares in Access Bank, then a small commercial bank ranked 65th among Nigeria’s banking institutions.
Transformation of Access Bank
Under Wigwe’s leadership, Access Bank underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into one of Nigeria’s top five banks and achieving global recognition, including ranking among the top 500 global banks by The Banker magazine.
READ ALSO:Update: Access Bank CEO Herbert Wigwe, Wife, Child Among Victims Of Helicopter Crash
Leadership Roles
Wigwe held numerous leadership positions within Access Bank and affiliated companies. He served as the Chairman of Access Bank Ghana Limited, Access Investment & Securities Limited, Central Securities and Clearing System (CSCS), and Chairman of Access Bank (UK) Limited.
Commitment to Thought Leadership
Wigwe spearheaded the creation of The Access Conference, a biennial event aimed at engaging global leaders in addressing major global challenges. This platform facilitated discussions on sustainable leadership and innovation, featuring renowned figures such as George W. Bush and Muhammad Yunus.
Philanthropic Initiatives
Wigwe was deeply involved in philanthropy, collaborating with organizations like UNICEF to support vulnerable children and communities, particularly in Northern Nigeria. Notably, Access Bank organized the annual Access Bank/UNICEF Charity Shield Polo tournament to raise awareness and funds for these causes.
Recognitions and Awards
Throughout his career, Wigwe garnered several accolades, including being named Banker of The Year by prominent Nigerian newspapers. He was also honored with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) national award by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional endeavours, Wigwe was admired for his sense of style and leadership. He was married to Chizoba Wigwe, with whom he had four children. His roots traced back to Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, although he resided and worked in Lagos.
Tragic Demise
On February 1, 2024, Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe’s life was tragically cut short alongside five others in a helicopter crash near the California-Nevada border in the United States. His untimely passing deeply impacted the banking industry and the communities he served, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, philanthropy, and leadership.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
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As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
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