Access Bank, a prominent financial institution in Nigeria, is grappling with the devastating news of the untimely death of its founding Group CEO, Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and three other passengers, including the chairman of the Nigerian Exchange, Abimbola Ogunbanjo. The tragic incident occurred in a plane crash involving a Eurocopter EC130, as confirmed by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.
In response to this profound loss, the Access Bank board is set to announce the appointment of an acting Group CEO, who will be tasked with continuing the “legacy of growth and operational excellence” left by Dr. Wigwe. The chairman of Access Holdings, Abubakar Jimoh, expressed deep sorrow, stating, “The Access family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe, who was a great friend and fine gentleman.”
Dr. Wigwe, aged 57, played a pivotal role in transforming Access Bank into a holding company and the largest bank in Nigeria by total assets. With over 60 million customers in 20 countries, Access Bank stands as one of the largest retail banks in sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Wigwe’s impact extended beyond the banking sector; he was actively involved in education, with his latest project being a university named after him in Rivers State.
The helicopter, en route to Las Vegas, crashed near the border between Nevada and California on Friday night. The entire Access Bank community, as well as the broader business and financial sectors, mourns the loss of a visionary leader and key figure in the Nigerian banking industry.As the nation reflects on Dr. Wigwe’s contributions, the forthcoming announcement of an acting Group CEO will be closely watched, with expectations for a leader who can carry forward the vision and accomplishments of Herbert Wigwe. The legacy of growth and operational excellence that Dr. Wigwe established at Access Bank is a testament to his prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience.Access Bank, which has grown under Dr. Wigwe’s leadership to become a powerhouse in the African banking landscape, faces the challenge of navigating this unexpected transition. The industry will keenly observe how the bank, under new leadership, continues to thrive and build on the foundations laid by its late founding Group CEO.
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