A year after the tragic deaths of Access Holdings CEO Herbert Wigwe and his wife, Chizoba Wigwe, emotional tributes have flowed in to honour their memories.
In 2024, the couple and their son perished in a helicopter crash in California, which had a significant effect on the financial and business communities.
Access Bank posted a heartfelt remembrance of their loss on Facebook on the anniversary of their death, calling it irreplaceable.
As family, friends, and colleagues reflect on their lives, the couple’s contributions to the banking industry and beyond remain a lasting testament to their legacy.
The post reads, “Today marks one year since the world stood still for us. On this day, we lost Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi—three remarkable souls who left an indelible mark on our lives and our hearts”.
“One year later, we still feel the void, but we also feel the weight of their legacy—one that challenges us to be better, do better, and strive for greatness”.
“As we reflect, we carry forward the values they instilled and honor their memories by walking the path they paved for us. Foever in our hearts”.
See post below:
A year ago, we lost a visionary leader whose impact still echoes in our lives. Herbert Wigwe was more than a name—he was a force of excellence, resilience, and transformation.
His legacy lives on in every bold step we take, every life he touched, and every dream he inspired. We… pic.twitter.com/oeVjr0xdzF
— Access Bank Plc (@myaccessbank) February 9, 2025
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late business magnate Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a man whose presence was larger than life.
“A year ago, the world as we knew it changed forever. In an instant, we lost a man whose presence was larger than life,” Sanwo-Olu said during the one-year remembrance event held at Eko Hotel in Lagos.
Wigwe, alongside his wife Chizoba and son Chizi, tragically lost their lives in an air crash in the United States exactly one year ago.
A Lasting Impact on Lagos and Nigeria
Sanwo-Olu spoke of the unhealed pain of their passing, acknowledging Wigwe’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria and Africa.
“He truly believed in Nigeria, he believed in Africa,” the governor said. “He especially believed in our work here in Lagos State. Herbert travelled the world with us, helping my government mobilise partners and funding.”
Sanwo-Olu emphasised the void Wigwe left behind, stating that Lagos State has deeply felt his absence over the past year.
“There are projects that would no doubt have moved faster today. Of course, Herbert being around would have pushed them forward,” he said.
Wigwe’s Contributions and Legacy
The governor also highlighted Wigwe’s immense contributions to Lagos, spanning various sectors, including:
- Support during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Banking and financial development
- Arts and culture initiatives
“H.O.W made my work as a governor a little easier,” Sanwo-Olu noted, reflecting on Wigwe’s constant drive for impact.
“Nothing gave him as much joy as executing projects,” he said, but believes Wigwe’s greatest legacy lives on in his children—Tochi, David, Hanna, and Okachi.
