Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, former Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, calling him a visionary leader whose influence continues to resonate across Lagos and Nigeria.
Speaking at a remembrance event held at Eko Hotel on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the profound impact Wigwe had on both the state and the nation. “Lagos State has felt his absence very strongly in the last year, and people in this room know truly what I am talking about.
There are projects that would no doubt have moved faster today. Of course, Herbert being around would have pushed them forward,” Sanwo-Olu remarked.
Wigwe, along with his wife Chizoba and son Chizi, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in the United States exactly one year ago. Reflecting on the painful loss, the governor said, “The pain of their loss lingers like an open wound that time has not healed.”
Sanwo-Olu emphasized Wigwe’s deep belief in Nigeria and Africa, highlighting his crucial contributions to the state’s growth. “He truly believed in Nigeria. He believed in Africa. He especially believed in our work here in Lagos State. Herbert traveled the world with us, helping my government mobilize partners and funding,” he stated.
Beyond his success in banking and finance, Wigwe was also known for his key role in arts, culture, and crisis response, with Sanwo-Olu recalling Wigwe’s pivotal support during the COVID-19 pandemic. “H.O.W made my work as governor a little easier. He was always looking for ways to be impactful. Nothing gave him more joy and satisfaction than executing projects,” the governor said.
Despite the immense loss, Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the enduring legacy left by Wigwe. “His greatest legacy lives in his children – Tochi, David, Hanna, and Okachi,” he concluded.