Babatunji Wusu –
- Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State described Herbert Wigwe’s passing as a profound loss to the state, citing his steadfast support for the administration’s initiatives.
- The memorial service for Wigwe, his wife, and son, was held at Eko Hotels and attended by key figures, including President Macron and former President Obasanjo.
- Sanwo-Olu praised Wigwe’s contributions to business and his belief in transforming vision into reality, noting his absence has deeply affected ongoing projects.
- Tributes from President Tinubu, President Macron, and former President Obasanjo highlighted Wigwe’s impact beyond banking, especially in uplifting society and fostering international relations.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the Managing Director of Access Holdings Group, describing it as a profound loss to the state. He noted that Wigwe had been an unwavering supporter of his administration’s development efforts since 2019.
Sanwo-Olu made these remarks at the First Year Memorial Service for Wigwe, his wife Doreen, and their son Chizi, which was held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The service was attended by various dignitaries, including President Emmanuel Macron of France, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Governors Sanwo-Olu and Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, and notable captains of industry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s statement, delivered by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, reflected on the significant impact of Wigwe’s absence on ongoing state projects. The governor remarked that several initiatives would have progressed faster had Wigwe still been alive, emphasizing that “Across the states, there are projects with Herbert Wigwe’s footprint.”
Sanwo-Olu also praised Wigwe as a visionary leader and a builder of both businesses and people. He said, “Herbert lived perpetually in the present and the future. He believed in actions, not just words. He truly believed in Nigeria and Africa. His absence is deeply felt in Lagos State.”
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Wale Edun, also honored Wigwe’s legacy, describing him as a visionary leader committed to uplifting society. Edun highlighted that Wigwe’s influence extended beyond the banking sector, touching lives and creating opportunities.
French President Emmanuel Macron lauded Wigwe for his exceptional contributions as an entrepreneur and as a key figure in strengthening Nigeria-France relations. Similarly, former President Olusegun Obasanjo praised Wigwe’s resilience and focus on building both institutions and people, recognizing him as a leader whose legacy continues to inspire.
Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife and son, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border on February 9, 2024.
