By Olakunle Agboola – In the fast-paced world of finance, leadership is not merely about navigating the present but also about shaping the future. Herbert Wigwe, the CEO of Access Bank, exemplifies this principle through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to driving innovation and transformation in the banking industry.
Since assuming the role of CEO in 2014, Herbert Wigwe has steered Access Bank on a trajectory of growth and expansion, cementing its position as one of Africa’s leading financial institutions. Under his stewardship, the bank has undergone a remarkable evolution, embracing digitalization, sustainability, and inclusivity as core pillars of its business strategy.
At the heart of Wigwe’s vision for Access Bank lies a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of technology. He has recognized the seismic shift towards digital banking and has spearheaded initiatives to leverage technology to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and drive financial inclusion. From pioneering mobile banking solutions to investing in cutting-edge fintech partnerships, Wigwe has positioned Access Bank at the forefront of the digital revolution in banking.
Herbert Wigwe’s leadership extends beyond the boardroom, encompassing a steadfast commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development. Under his guidance, Access Bank has championed initiatives to empower communities, foster entrepreneurship, and combat climate change. From supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to promoting renewable energy projects, the bank’s corporate social responsibility efforts are a testament to Wigwe’s vision of banking as a force for positive change.
This holistic vision was suddenly cut short on Friday night’s helicopter crash in a remote part of the Mojave Desert along the California-Nevade border. Wigwe with his wife and son were among six people killed in this fatal crash, according to officials.
The Access Bank CEO, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Doreen Chizoba, and son Chizi, died in the crash along with the former group chairman of Nigeria’s stock exchange Abimola Ogunbanjo. The identity of Herbert Wigwe was first released by the director general of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Also, confirmed by Access Bank officials.
The helicopter at the center of the deadly crash departed about 8.45 pm Friday from Palm Springs airport in California en route to Boulder City, Nevada, about 26 miles (41km) southeast of Las Vegas. The aircraft was reportedly an Airbus Helicopter EC-130.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, authorities were alerted of the crash at about 10.10 pm on Friday, 9th of February 2024. All six people on board, including two helicopter pilots, were reported dead – but their identities were not immediately released. The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the cause of the crash.
Herbert Wigwe is a vocal advocate for economic empowerment and youth development in Africa. Through his various philanthropic endeavors and mentorship programs, he has inspired a new generation of leaders to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility. His passion for driving sustainable development and creating opportunities for future generations underscores his commitment to building a more inclusive world.
Africa most especially Nigeria mourns this colossal loss. The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu has been overwhelmed by Wigwe’s sudden death. He had sent condolence messages to the family of Wigwe and Ogunbanjo. Other important dignitaries which cut across politics, entertainment, banks of industries, and business leaders in Africa and abroad, have continued sending condolence messages to the family.
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