The world of finance and entrepreneurship recently took note of the passing away of a well-known person, Chizoba Wigwe, together with her husband, the late Herbert Wigwe. The pair’s long-standing partnership played a key role in Herbert’s journey as CEO of Access Bank, with Chizoba’s support a cornerstone of his success. While social media is abuzz with curiosity about Chizoba’s net worth and career earnings, details remain elusive, reflecting her choice to remain a private person.
Chizoba, a lawyer and entrepreneur by profession, was known for her dedication to her husband’s endeavours, contributing significantly to his achievements in the banking industry. Herbert Wigwe’s career was a testament to his skill and determination, culminating in an estimated fortune of $65.2 million. His legacy in the Nigerian financial sector is marked by groundbreaking achievements and lasting influence.
The couple’s life together began with a chance meeting during the National Youth Service Corps program, which led to a marriage where they raised four children and navigated the complexities of the personal and professional worlds. Despite Herbert’s prominence, Chizoba chose to focus on her family and personal pursuits, rarely seeking the limelight herself.
The death of Herbert Wigwe has left an indelible void in the financial world, especially in the African context. His rise from humble beginnings to a leading figure in banking is a narrative of inspiration and influence, with his vision and transformative strategies shaping Access Bank into a formidable institution.
The tragic helicopter crash that claimed Herbert’s life, along with Chizoba, their son Chizi and other passengers, occurred in the remote expanses of the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border. The loss of these individuals, including Abimol Ogunbanjo, the former group chairman of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, has been confirmed by prominent figures and institutions, including the head of the WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and officials of Access Bank.
A helicopter that took off from Palm Springs Airport en route to Boulder City crashed Friday night, prompting an emergency response from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The crash claimed the lives of all six passengers, including the pilots, prompting an investigation by the NTSB and the FAA, which used drone technology to survey the site.
The tragic news reverberated through Nigeria and the international banking community, prompting a profound statement from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who expressed his deep sorrow over the accident. The banking sector has particularly felt the impact of Herbert Wigwe’s leadership since 2014, which catapulted Access Bank to the fore as the largest bank in Nigeria.
As the investigation into this heartbreaking incident progresses, the contributions and memories of those lost are highly valued, and their impact continues long after their untimely departure.