Everything to know about Access Bank boss, Herbert Wigwe, his reported death

 Tragedy struck the business world with a devastating unconfirmed report emerging from the United States, suggesting the demise of Herbert Wigwe, the esteemed CEO of Access Holdings Plc. Speculations abound following a helicopter crash near the California-Nevada border, claiming the lives of six individuals on board, including Wigwe and his family.

The incident, which occurred on a fateful Friday night in close proximity to the Nevada-California border, has sent shockwaves through the corporate sphere. Unverified sources indicate that Wigwe, alongside his wife Chizoba and their son, were among the unfortunate victims of the tragic mishap.

Authorities, including the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), have confirmed the helicopter crash near Nipton, California, involving a Eurocopter EC 130 with six occupants. Despite search efforts, no survivors have been located as of Saturday morning, leaving the situation fraught with uncertainty and sorrow.

Herbert Wigwe's untimely passing has left a void in the financial sector, where he was renowned for his acumen and leadership. Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1966, Wigwe's illustrious career saw him rise to prominence as the CEO of Access Holdings Plc, formerly known as Access Corporation. He steered Access Bank plc to prominence as one of Nigeria's top banking institutions, following his appointment in January 2014 until April 2022.

Wigwe's influence extended beyond the borders of Nigeria, with notable roles as Chairman of various entities including Access Bank Ghana Limited and Access Bank (UK) Limited. His contributions to the banking industry earned him prestigious accolades, including being named Banker of The Year by Vanguard and The Sun, leading Nigerian newspapers, in 2016. Moreover, he was honored as the African Banker of the Year at the 2021 African Banker Awards.

In recognition of his outstanding service to the nation, Herbert Wigwe was bestowed with the Nigerian National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022.

Wigwe's legacy transcends his professional achievements, with his commitment to societal impact evident through his patronage of the Boys' Brigade in Lagos State and his involvement in youth development initiatives. His passing leaves behind a profound sense of loss, not only within the financial community but also among those whose lives he touched through his philanthropy and leadership. As investigations into the helicopter crash continue, tributes pour in from colleagues, friends, and admirers, honoring the memory of a visionary leader gone too soon.