Access Holdings Plc has officially confirmed the tragic death of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife and son, in a helicopter accident in the United States, News About Nigeria reports.
The incident, which occurred near the border of California and Nevada on Friday night, also claimed the lives of Wigwe’s wife, son, and three others, including Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former chairman of NGX Group Plc.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Group Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, on Sunday.
The statement expressed deep sadness over the passing of Dr. Wigwe, stating that he died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024, in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.
Dr. Wigwe was the founding group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc.
The entire Access family is mourning the loss of Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi, and the statement extended deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.
Dr. Wigwe played a key role in the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the bank in 2002.
He was described as a larger-than-life personality who brought remarkable passion, energy, and experience to his role.
Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings, commented on the passage of Dr. Wigwe, stating, “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe, who was a great friend and a 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, expressing confidence that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.
Access Bank also shared a tribute on their official X account, bidding farewell to a visionary leader whose passion and commitment to excellence transformed Access into a global powerhouse.
The bank acknowledged that Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of excellence and compassion will continue to inspire.
“Rest in peace, Herbert Wigwe. Your impact will forever be felt,” the statement concluded.
Earlier, Access Holdings Plc acknowledged reports of a helicopter crash involving Dr. Wigwe but lacked specific details.
The company stated its collaboration with US authorities for updates on the incident, which occurred near the California-Nevada border.
