Friends, family, and associates of the late Herbert Wigwe, former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, gathered at the Eko Hotel in Lagos on Monday evening to pay their tribute to the visionary leader. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as they came together to honor Wigwe’s extraordinary life and legacy.
Wigwe, alongside his wife, son, and former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Abimbola Ogunbanjo, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on February 9, 2024, in the United States. The devastating accident also claimed the lives of two crew members, leaving the global business community in shock and sorrow.
During the gathering, which marked the commencement of Wigwe’s burial rites under the theme ‘Celebrating Herbert Wigwe – A Professional Legacy’, heartfelt tributes poured in from esteemed figures across various sectors.
Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, spoke tearfully of Wigwe’s unwavering support and friendship, renaming a road leading to the Dangote Refinery in his honor.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos praised Wigwe’s embodiment of the true spirit of the city, emphasizing his inclusive and detribalized nature.
Yemi Cardoso, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, reminisced about Wigwe’s innovative thinking and invaluable contributions to the nation’s economic growth.
Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, lauded Wigwe’s entrepreneurial prowess, noting his ability to turn every venture into success.
