World Leaders Pay Respects at Funeral for Nigerian Banking CEO Killed in California Helicopter Crash
Leaders from across the globe, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Former President Bill Clinton, honor the late Nigerian banking CEO Herbert Wigwe and his family during a solemn funeral in Lagos following their tragic helicopter crash on the way to the Super Bowl.
French President Emmanuel Macron and former US President Bill Clinton were among those honoring ****Nigerian banking magnate Herbert Wigwe at his funeral.
Wigwe was a prominent figure in ****African banking and philanthropy, and his passing has led to an overwhelming display of sorrow.
A seven-day funeral ceremony to honor his life is now taking place in Lagos, Nigeria's bustling commercial center.
Wigwe, along with his wife and son, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash last month in the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border. The crash also claimed the life of Abimbola Ogunbanjo, a former group chairman of the Nigeria Stock Exchange.
France is mourning the loss of a dear friend, Herbert Wigwe. Macron's sentiments were conveyed by French foreign trade minister Franck Riester at the ‘Night of Tributes’ memorial for the Wigwes in Lagos’ Victoria Island. Macron praised Wigwe's efforts in enhancing cross-cultural initiatives and strengthening economic partnership between the two countries.
LAGOS, NIGERIA - SEPTEMBER 18: Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe speaks onstage at Global Citizen Live, Lagos on September 18, 2021 in Lagos, Nigeria. (Photo by Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for Global Citizen)
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe was a speaker at Global Citizen Live in Lagos, Nigeria on September 18, 2021. The event took place in Lagos where he shared his thoughts on important global issues. The photo captures him on stage during his speech.
Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for Global Citizen/File
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A Nigerian bank CEO and his family were among the six people who tragically died in a helicopter crash in California. Former US President Bill Clinton also expressed his condolences, acknowledging that no words can truly ease the pain of such a devastating loss.
Clinton expressed his admiration for Herbert's dedication to expanding opportunities for youth in Nigeria and his support for humanitarian efforts globally.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria described the Wigwes' passing as a devastating tragedy that is difficult to grasp, while Vice President Kashim Shettima paid tribute to them during a memorial service on Wednesday.
The Nigerian vice president mentioned that Herbert passed away in the winter before the season of bloom. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa referred to Wigwe as a "continental partner and banking sector pioneer" and expressed that his death was a significant loss.
Aliko Dangote, Africa's wealthiest man, paid an emotional tribute to Wigwe, referring to him as a "loyal friend" and "mentee."
Dangote expressed his feelings of helplessness for not being able to prevent the tragic event that occurred to his friend, brother, and mentee, who he described as a very loyal friend. In honor of Wigwe, Dangote announced that he would rename one of the main roads leading to his refinery after him.
Olusola Faleye, an aide to Wigwe, shared details about his final moments at the 'Night of Tributes' event in Lagos. He mentioned that he was supposed to travel with Wigwe to Las Vegas, but decided to go by road with the family's luggage instead.
Faleye expressed, "Since 2019, I have always been by Wigwe's side in every place or flight he has been to. We were inseparable."
Growing up in Ibadan, born in August 1966, Wigwe was raised by his father Shyngle, a civil servant, and his mother Stella, a nurse. They taught him the importance of hard work, integrity, and helping others.
Wigwe completed his accounting degree at the esteemed University of Nigeria Nsukka in 1987. Following this, he furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in Banking and Finance from North Wales University (now Bangor University) in the United Kingdom.
Upon his return to Nigeria in 1991, Wigwe started his career as a graduate assistant at Coopers and Lybrand Associates Limited. He quickly progressed within the company, showcasing his dedication and skills.
He later joined Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and became the youngest executive director at the age of 32.
It was during his time at GTB that Herbert formed a lasting friendship and partnership with Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who was also making a name for himself in the Nigerian banking industry.
Together, they had a vision to revolutionize the Nigerian banking industry.
In 2002, Wigwe and Aig-Imoukhuede made a significant move by purchasing Access Bank, which was not widely recognized at that time.
Under his guidance, Access Bank evolved from a small institution into one of the largest banks in Africa, boasting branches in Paris and South Africa. At the time of his passing, Wigwe had been strategizing an expansion into Asia.
Editor's P/S:
The untimely demise of Herbert Wigwe, a towering figure in ****African banking and philanthropy, has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of countless individuals. The outpouring of grief and admiration from global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and former US President Bill Clinton, underscores the profound impact he had on the world. Wigwe's legacy of innovation, mentorship, and social responsibility will continue to inspire generations to come.
Wigwe's journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of the banking industry is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional leadership. His vision and foresight transformed Access Bank into a global powerhouse, while his philanthropic endeavors touched the lives of countless individuals. The tributes paid to him by dignitaries and friends alike serve as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary life he lived and the profound loss his passing represents for the world.
