The fascinating biography of Herbert Wigwe, a name synonymous with resilience, leadership, and innovation in the world of Nigerian banking. In the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, a titan of the banking industry emerged, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of finance and philanthropy. His name? Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe—a man whose journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacles of success serves as an inspiration to many.
Get ready for an engaging ride through his family background, early days, education, career milestones, and more!
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Short Bio
Born – 15th August, 1966
Died – 9th February 2024 (Aged 58)
Occupation – MD/CEO Access Bank PLC
Partner – Chizoba Wigwe Nee Nwuba (Died 2024)
Children – 4
Herbert Wigwe Secondary School –
Early Life of Herbert Wigwe
Herbert Wigwe was born on August 15, 1966, in Isiokpo, Rivers State, Nigeria—a region teeming with vibrant culture and rich heritage. Raised in a household where education was prized, he was the son of a distinguished father who served as the head of the Nigerian Television Authority, and a nurturing mother who dedicated her life to healing as a nurse.
Education: A Quest for Knowledge
Armed with a thirst for knowledge and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Herbert embarked on his educational journey, earning a bachelor’s degree in accountancy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1987. Fueling his ambition to broaden his horizons, he seized the opportunity to study abroad, receiving a Master of Arts in banking and finance from the University College of North Wales (now Bangor University) in 1991, supported by a British council scholarship.
He earned an MSc in financial economics at the prestigious University of London in 1996. Herbert Wigwe also attended Harvard Business School executive management program.
Herbert Wigwe’s Career
From ground to up, Herbert’s professional journey kicked off at Coopers & Lybrand, where he cut his teeth as a management consultant in the late ’80s. As a man born with the ambition and a knack for numbers, he become a chartered accountant in 1989 thereby making a name for himself.
Dedication and hard work at Guranty Trust Bank saw Herbert ascend to the role of executive director by 1998, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.
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The Access Bank Era
Access Bank soared to become the fourth-largest bank in Nigeria by 2017, Under Herbert’s visionary leadership. This was due to his strategic acumen and unwavering determination. His crowning achievement? The merger with Diamond Bank in 2018, cementing Access Bank’s status as the largest bank in Nigeria.
Herbert’s Heart for Philanthropy
But Herbert’s impact extended far beyond the boardroom. As a firm believer in giving back to society, He spearheaded numerous philanthropic initiatives, just to mention but a few like the collaborations with UNICEF to support vulnerable children and founding The HOW Foundation, a beacon of hope for those in need.
Herbert Wigwe’s personal Life
Behind every successful man is a supportive partner, and Herbert found his rock in Chizoba Wigwe. Married since 1994, the couple shared a deep bond and four beautiful children.
Herbert Wigwe Honors and Accolades
Throughout his career, Herbert received numerous awards and honors, including Banker of The Year, an award by The Sun and Vanguard newspapers in 2016. His contributions to society were further recognized with the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic, bestowed upon him by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022.
Herbert Wigwe’s Net Worth
Herbert Wigwe Cause Of Death
Tragically, Herbert Wigwe’s life was cut short in a devastating helicopter crash on February 9, 2024, while en route to attend the Super Bowl LVIII championship in Las Vegas.
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