In a somber turn of events, Access Bank Nigeria has announced the appointment of Bolaji Agbede as the acting CEO following the untimely passing of Herbert Wigwe, the late CEO who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash last Friday alongside five others.
Access Holdings Plc, the parent company of Access Bank, released a statement confirming Bolaji Agbede’s temporary appointment as the most senior founding executive director. With over 30 years of experience in banking and business consultancy, Agbede has been an integral part of the Access Bank team since 2003.
The tragic incident occurred as Wigwe’s chartered helicopter was en route from Palm Springs to Boulder City in Nevada, USA, approximately 96 km (60 miles) from Las Vegas. Reports suggest that the 57-year-old banker was headed to attend Sunday’s Super Bowl in Las Vegas.
Herbert Wigwe, the visionary founder of Access Bank in 1989, played a pivotal role in the bank’s remarkable growth and expansion. Under his leadership, Access Bank achieved a significant milestone in 2018 by becoming the largest bank in Nigeria following the strategic acquisition of its main competitor, Diamond Bank.
As Access Bank and the broader financial community mourn the loss of Herbert Wigwe, his contributions to the banking sector and the enduring legacy of Access Bank are duly acknowledged. The banking community extends its heartfelt condolences to Wigwe’s family, colleagues, and associates deeply affected by this tragic event.
In assuming the role of acting CEO, Bolaji Agbede steps into formidable shoes, committed to upholding Access Bank’s legacy of service excellence, financial stability, and innovation. Despite the profound loss, Access Bank remains resolute in its mission to contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the banking industry under Agbede’s capable leadership.