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

Dr. Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe, a towering figure in Africa's financial sector, would have marked his 60th birthday, leaving behind a profound legacy in banking, education, and philanthropy.

Wigwe's influence extended far beyond his role as Co-Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, where he spearheaded its transformation from a Nigerian entity into a multinational financial services group. His vision was to build an African institution competitive on a global scale. He also chaired the Bankers' Committee, engaging with regulators and leaders to address Nigeria's economic challenges and advocating for private sector contributions to national development.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Wigwe was deeply committed to social impact. Through The HOW Foundation, established in 2016, he invested in education, healthcare, and youth development. The foundation supported disadvantaged children, initiated programs in underserved communities like Makoko, and funded medical scholarships and the rehabilitation of healthcare centers.

His most ambitious undertaking was Wigwe University, conceived to empower young Africans with the skills and confidence to become job creators and problem-solvers. Despite his untimely death, the university has opened its doors, continuing his vision of transforming Africa through education. Initiatives like the Fearless Leadership Series and Wigwe Venture Lab further underscore his dedication to nurturing a new generation of African leaders.