Access Holdings Plc has spoken about the death of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Herbert Wigwe, alongside his wife and son in a helicopter crash in the United States.

Access Holdings, in a statement issued by the company’s Group Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, on Sunday, February 11, 2024, described Wigwe as a key driving force.

It said: “It is with deep sadness that the Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc announces the passing of Dr Herbert Wigwe, CFR, the Company’s founding Group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of its flagship subsidiary Access Bank Plc.

“Dr Wigwe died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024, in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.

“The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.

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“Dr Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.”

Speaking on Wigwe’s death, Chairman of Access Holdings, Abubakar Jimoh, was quoted as saying: “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman.

“He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.”

Jimoh said in line with the company’s policy, the Board will soon announce the appointment of an Acting Group CEO.

He expressed hope that “the Access Group will build further on Dr Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.”

The Star