“Across the states, there are projects with Herbert Wigwe’s footprint”
Why Herbert Wigwe Is Strongly Missed – Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the continued absence of the late Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a firm supporter of his administration’s development agenda.
Speaking at the First Year Memorial Service for Wigwe, his wife Doreen, and their son Chizi, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Governor noted that Lagos State has strongly felt the void left by the late Group Managing Director of Access Holdings since his passing.
According to Sanwo-Olu, Wigwe’s contributions to the state’s progress were significant, and several projects would have been delivered faster if he were alive. “Across the states, there are projects with Herbert Wigwe’s footprint,” he said.
The memorial service brought together dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; business leaders; and banking executives.
It will be recalled that Wigwe, his wife, and son, along with former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), Bimbo Ogunbanjo, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border in the United States on February 9, 2024.
Sanwo-Olu, in his tribute, described Wigwe as a visionary leader who not only built businesses but also mentored people, nurtured ideas, and worked toward a better future.
“He lived perpetually in the present and the future. He believed in action, 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,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor further emphasized Wigwe’s role in mobilizing partnerships and funding for state projects, making governance more effective. “His absence is deeply felt in Lagos State. There are projects today that would have progressed faster if he were still with us,” he added.
Representing President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Finance Wale Edun paid tribute to Wigwe’s legacy, describing him as more than a banker but a builder of dreams and institutions.
“Herbert embodied vision, excellence, and generosity. His impact was felt in the lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the hopes he inspired,” Tinubu’s message read.
President Emmanuel Macron also lauded Wigwe as a remarkable entrepreneur and a key figure in strengthening France-Nigeria relations through his role as Chairman of the Nigeria-France Business Council.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo acknowledged Wigwe’s dedication to collaboration and mentorship, stating that his legacy exemplifies what Africans can achieve with vision, determination, and unity.
A year after his passing, Herbert Wigwe remains deeply missed, not just by his family and friends, but by the nation he worked tirelessly to uplift. Read More
