Access Holdings Plc has announced that Dr. Herbert Wigwe, its CEO, passed away in a helicopter accident in the United States, together with his wife and son.
Sunday Ekwochi, the Group Company Secretary, issued a statement on Sunday making the announcement.
The statement reads, “It is with deep sadness that the Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) announces the passing of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR, the Company’s founding Group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of its flagship subsidiary Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’).
“Dr. Wigwe died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024 in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.
“The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.
“Dr. Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.
“Commenting on the passage of Dr. Wigwe, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings said: “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.
“In line with the Company’s policy, the Board will soon announce the appointment of an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer even as we remain confident that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.”
The Bank on their X account said, “Today, we bid farewell to a visionary leader, @HerbertOWigwe, whose passion and unwavering commitment to excellence transformed Access into a global powerhouse.
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“His legacy of excellence and compassion will continue to inspire us all.
“Rest in peace, Herbert Wigwe. Your impact will forever be felt.”
Dr. Wigwe was reported to have been involved in a helicopter crash, although Access Holdings Plc did not provide any further information at the time. Regarding updates on the incident, which happened close to the California-Nevada border, the company said it was working with US authorities.
