Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic passing of Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc.
A statement released yesterday by his media aide, Tunde Moshood, the Minister expressed shock and disbelief at the untimely demise of Wigwe, noting that the visionary leader had visited his office just a few days before the tragic accident.
Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and three others, lost their lives in a helicopter crash near the Nevada border in California, United States of America at the weekend.
Among the victims was Abimbola Ogunbanjo, a former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, and two crew members.
“In a shocking turn of events, the world just bid a painful farewell to Herbert Wigwe, the esteemed CEO of Access Holdings, who died in a tragic helicopter crash that claimed his life, beloved wife, child, and business partner, Bimbo Ogunbanjo.
Their journey, which began with ambitious business aspirations, ended abruptly, leaving behind a void felt not only in the corporate world but also in the hearts of those who knew them.
“Wigwe, a luminary in the banking and financial sector, was not merely a tycoon chasing profits; he was a visionary leader with a fervent dedication to his nation’s progress. His untimely demise occurred during a crucial juncture, as he sought to revolutionize Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure,” Keyamo said.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has also expressed her profound sorrow at the passing of the Late Mr. Herbert Wigwe, CON, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc and founder of the How Foundation.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Kuku, she recalled a recent meeting she and some FAAN Directors had with the late banking leader and entrepreneur to discuss mutual interests.
“On behalf of my family, the entire management, and staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), I extend our heartfelt condolences to the immediate and extended family of the Late Mr. Herbert Wigwe, his beloved wife, and son. Our sympathy also goes out to the staff, management of Access Holdings Plc, the How Foundation, and the broader banking community on this loss.
“The news of their untimely passing came as a shock. It was particularly poignant as I had just met with Mr. Wigwe last Tuesday in Abuja, along with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and some of our Directors. During our meeting, he passionately discussed utilizing his vast wealth, resources, and experience for the betterment of humanity.
“Mr. Wigwe was a luminary in the financial services sector, and his absence will be deeply felt as we honour his legacy of accomplishments and the significant philanthropic endeavors he championed,” Kuku said.
