By Muhammad Mamman
Access Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s largest financial institutions, has paid tribute to its former Chief Executive Officer Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife and son, in a heartfelt statement marking the anniversary of their deaths. 
In a message posted on the bank’s official social media channels, Access Bank described Wigwe as a visionary leader whose contributions helped shape the bank’s growth and influence both in Nigeria and across Africa. The tribute highlighted his enduring impact on the institution and the wider business community. 
Wigwe, his wife Chizoba Wigwe, and their son Chizi lost their lives in a helicopter crash in California, United States, on 9 February 2024, an event that sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s financial and political circles. 
In recent weeks, memorial events have been held in Lagos, where colleagues, family and dignitaries gathered to remember the Wigwe family’s legacy. Speakers at these events paid tribute not only to Wigwe’s leadership at Access Bank but also to his philanthropic work and mentorship of young professionals in the country’s banking sector. 
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, along with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and international figures, have also publicly recognised Wigwe’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic development during remembrance ceremonies. 
Access Bank’s tribute underscores a collective sense of loss within Nigeria’s corporate landscape, as well as a commitment from the institution to uphold the principles and values championed by its late CEO. 
