Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that the absence of the late Group Managing Director of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, has been deeply felt across the state since his passing a year ago.
According to Sanwo-Olu, several projects would have progressed faster if Wigwe, the co-founder of Access Holdings, were still alive, noting that his influence remains visible in various initiatives.
Wigwe, his wife Doreen, and their son Chizi lost their lives alongside the former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), Bimbo Ogunbanjo, in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border in the United States on February 9, 2024.
A statement on Monday by Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, revealed that the governor spoke at the first-year memorial service held in honour of Wigwe and his family. The event, organised by Access Holdings, took place in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Paying tribute to the late banker, Sanwo-Olu described Wigwe as a firm believer in Lagos State’s development and a visionary leader who was passionate about building not just businesses but also people, ideas, and the future.
Sanwo-Olu further highlighted Wigwe’s commitment to Nigeria and Africa’s potential, stating that he was more than a friend—he was a brother who shared his vision for good governance and development.
“He lived perpetually in the present and the future. He believed in actions, not just words. I saw him transform vision into reality. When others hesitated, he moved. When others saw obstacles, he saw opportunities. He truly believed in Nigeria and Africa.
“He was a builder of men and businesses, turning visions into reality. His absence is deeply felt in Lagos State, as there are projects today that would have progressed faster if he were still with us. Herbert made my work easier by mobilising partners and funding for state projects,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Speaking earlier, President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, emphasised that Wigwe’s impact extended beyond the boardroom and financial sector.
In his tribute, Tinubu described Wigwe as more than just a banker but a builder of dreams and institutions.
“Herbert embodied vision, excellence, and generosity. He was deeply committed to uplifting society. His impact was felt in the lives he touched, opportunities he created, and hopes he inspired,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron also praised Wigwe as an exceptional entrepreneur and a strong advocate for France-Nigeria relations.
“He made significant contributions as Chairman of the Nigeria-France Business Council, strengthening the bilateral relationship and friendship between France and Nigeria,” Macron noted.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo highlighted Wigwe’s resilience and dedication to fostering partnerships.
He understood that true leadership involves building both institutions and people. His legacy is a testament to what Africans can achieve through vision, determination, and collaboration.”
The memorial service was attended by Wigwe’s family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones, along with dignitaries such as Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, present and former public office holders, captains of industry, top bankers, and business magnates.
