Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe was a prominent Nigerian banker, businessman, and philanthropist who played a pivotal role in transforming Access Bank into one of Africa’s largest financial institutions. At the time of his untimely death in 2024, a net worth of $100 million was estimated for him
Early Life and Education
Born on August 15, 1966, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Herbert Wigwe hailed from Isiokpo, Rivers State. His father served as the Director-General of the showbizztoday.com Nigerian Television Authority, while his mother was a nurse.
Wigwe’s academic journey commenced at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1987. He furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Banking and Finance from the University College of North Wales in 1991, followed by a Master of Science in Financial Economics from the University of London in 1996. Additionally, he attended the Harvard Business School Executive Management Programme.
Career Trajectory
Coopers & Lybrand and Guaranty Trust Bank
Wigwe began his professional career as a management consultant at Coopers & Lybrand (now PricewaterhouseCoopers) in the late 1980s. He later joined Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), where he spent over a decade, eventually rising to the position of Executive Director.
Access Bank: Transformation and Leadership
In 2002, Wigwe and his business partner, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, acquired Access Bank. Wigwe became the Deputy Managing Director and later the Group Managing Director/CEO in 2014. Under his leadership, Access Bank expanded significantly, merging with Diamond Bank in 2019 to become the largest bank in Nigeria by assets and the largest in Africa by customer base.
Net Worth and Financial Portfolio
At the time of his death, Herbert Wigwe’s net worth was estimated at $100 million. His wealth stemmed from various sources, including his stakes in Access Bank, investments in real estate, and ownership in businesses such as Craneburg Construction.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Wigwe was deeply committed to philanthropy. He founded the HOW Foundation in 2016, focusing on youth empowerment and health initiatives. He also collaborated with UNICEF to support children and displaced persons in northern Nigeria. His philanthropic efforts earned him the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) honor in 2022.
Personal Life
In 1994, Wigwe married Doreen Nwuba, and together they had four children: Chizi, Tochi, Hannah, and David. Tragically, on February 9, 2024, Wigwe, his wife, and their son Chizi lost their lives in a helicopter crash near Nipton, California. While en route to attend Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas.
(FAQs) About Herbert Wigwe Net Worth
Q1: What was Herbert Wigwe net worth?
A1: Herbert Wigwe net worth was estimated at $100 million at the time of his death .
Q2: How did Herbert Wigwe accumulate his wealth?
A2: His wealth was derived from his leadership at Access Bank, investments in real estate, and ownership in businesses like Craneburg Construction .
Q3: What philanthropic initiatives was Herbert Wigwe involved in?
A3: Wigwe founded the HOW Foundation, focusing on youth empowerment and health initiatives, and collaborated with UNICEF to support vulnerable populations in Nigeria .
Q4: When and how did Herbert Wigwe pass away?
A4: He died on February 9, 2024, in a helicopter crash near Nipton, California, while traveling to attend Super Bowl LVIII .
Q5: What legacy did Herbert Wigwe leave behind?
A5: Wigwe’s legacy includes transforming Access Bank into a leading financial institution in Africa, his philanthropic contributions, and his vision for economic development in Nigeria .
Conclusion
Herbert Wigwe’s life and career exemplify visionary leadership and a commitment to societal development. Through his strategic direction, Access Bank flourished, and his philanthropic endeavors left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders and entrepreneurs.
