Access Bank confirms death of its boss, Wigwe, his wife, son in helicopter accident

Access Holdings Plc has announced and confirmed the tragic demise of its Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, and son in a helicopter accident in the United States (U.S).

This news was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Group Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi.

“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,” according to the statement.

The group stated that Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.

Chairman of Access Holdings, Abubakar Jimoh, in his comment to mourn Wigwa 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.”

The group indicated that the Board would soon announce the appointment of an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer even as it remained confident that the Access Group would build further on Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.

This, according to the statement, was in line with the Company’s policy.

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