World Leaders, Business Associates, and Political Leaders Commemorate Herbert Wigwe at First-Year Memorial
Eminent Nigerians and global leaders gathered on Sunday evening to honor the legacy of banking icon Herbert Wigwe in a memorial event marking the first anniversary of his passing. Wigwe tragically lost his life in a helicopter accident in Southern California on February 9, 2024, alongside his wife, Doreen, son Chizi, and friend Abimbola Ogunbanjo.
The four-hour memorial service, held at the Eko Hotel ballroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, featured prayers, musical performances, and a sermon by Pastor Itua Ighodalo. A keynote lecture was delivered by the Prime Minister of Barbados, Ms. Mia Mottley.
In a heartfelt tribute, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Wigwe as a visionary banker and business leader whose contributions significantly shaped Nigeria’s banking industry. Recalling their numerous engagements, he praised Wigwe for transforming Access Bank from a small lender in 2002 into a global financial powerhouse. Obasanjo’s message was read by Bolaji Agbede, acting Group Chief Executive of Access Holdings.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Finance Minister Olawale Edun, lauded Wigwe’s pioneering achievements in business and finance, highlighting his establishment of a university poised to revolutionize higher education in Africa. French President Emmanuel Macron, through a senior diplomat at the French Embassy in Abuja, described Wigwe as a master of business diplomacy, noting his role as President of the French-Nigeria Business Council in fostering bilateral economic ties.
In her keynote address, Prime Minister Mottley reflected on the loss of vital correspondent banking relationships (CBRs) during the 2009 financial crisis and emphasized how Barbados has risen to the challenge. She announced that Access Bank is set to commence operations in Barbados, pending regulatory approvals. Recalling Wigwe’s heritage, she made a historical reference to King Jaja of Opobo’s exile to Barbados by British colonialists and warmly addressed Wigwe’s daughter, Tochi, saying, “You will soon come to Barbados; but not as an exile,” drawing laughter from the audience.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu delivered an emotional tribute, describing Wigwe as a bold and courageous leader whose legacy continues to shape Lagos. He cited Wigwe’s contributions to the renovated National Arts Theatre, the Access Bank Lagos Marathon, and efforts in combating COVID-19.
One of the most poignant moments came from Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who spoke of his enduring friendship and partnership with Wigwe. He reassured Wigwe’s children—Tochi, Hannah, David, and Okachi—that they would always have his unwavering support, dismissing social media speculation to the contrary.
The evening also saw heartfelt tributes from Chizi Wigwe’s friends Rasheed Sarumi and Tunde Ogundare, as well as Linda Petinrin and Queenette Allagoa, who shared memories of the late Chizoba Wigwe. Additional speakers included Ambassador Idaere Gogo-Ogan, Roosevelt Ogbonna (CEO of Access Bank Plc), Uche Wigwe (Wigwe’s cousin and trustee of Wigwe University), and David Wigwe (Herbert’s son), all of whom reflected on the immense loss.
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Among the dignitaries present were Chairman of THISDAY Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Paul Usoro, SAN, Chairman of Access Bank Plc; Emir of Kano, Mohammed Sanusi II; Afrexim Bank President Prof. Benedict Oramah; former GTBank CEO Fola Adeola; and Ben Akabueze, former DG of the Budget Office of the Federation.
During a post-memorial dinner, Prince Obaigbena formally presented the THISDAY Lifetime Achievement Award for Herbert Wigwe to his daughter, Tochi Wigwe.
Source: Access Bank
