Herbert Wigwe @ 60: A Legacy of Banking, Service, Nation-building – THISDAYLIVE

Omolabake Fasogbon

Dr. Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe, the late banker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, would have turned 60 today, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence banking, education, healthcare and youth development in Nigeria and beyond.

Wigwe, who rose to become one of Africa’s leading financial executives, was widely known for his role in the transformation and expansion of Access Bank. But beyond banking, he devoted considerable attention and resources to building institutions, supporting young people and creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities.

To his family, friends and associates, he was also a mentor and a firm believer in the ability of people to achieve more when given the right opportunities.

As Co-Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank and later Access Holdings, Wigwe played a major role in the growth of the financial institution from a Nigerian bank into a financial services group with operations across several countries. His ambition was not simply to build a successful Nigerian bank, but to develop an African institution capable of competing with leading financial organisations around the world.

His influence also extended beyond Access Bank. As Chairman of the Bankers’ Committee, Wigwe participated in discussions on major issues affecting Nigeria’s banking industry and economy. He worked with government officials, regulators and other business leaders, believing that the private sector had a responsibility to contribute to national development and help find solutions to the country’s social and economic challenges.

Wigwe’s belief that business success should make a difference in society was reflected in the establishment of The HOW Foundation in 2016.

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