Former VP Osinbajo mourns the loss of Access Bank CEO Herbert Wigwe, recounts final moments with him

• Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo mourns the passing of Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings Plc.
• Yemi Osinbajo describes Herbert Wigwe as more than a financial figure, but a true friend and hope bringer.
• The former VP recalls Herbert Wigwe’s genuine concern and support, highlighting their last meaningful interactions.

The former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, expressed profound sorrow over the demise of Herbert Wigwe, the late Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc.

During a poignant service of songs at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Resurrection Parish in Lekki, Lagos, Prof. Osinbajo paid tribute to Herbert Wigwe, describing his passing as a substantial loss for Africa and the world.

He went on to eulogize Herbert Wigwe as more than just a figure in the industry but a true friend who not only spoke passionately about his convictions but also lived by them.

“This is not just a national tragedy but one felt across Africa and many parts of the world. Many are grieving the loss of a true friend, a hope bringer, and a man for whom the future always seemed too imminent,” Prof. Osinbajo said.

“Across this land and elsewhere, many have been weeping with you. This tragedy has trouble so many, young and old; Herbert friends and associates, Doris’ circle of friends and associates, Chizie’s friends, a deep dark cloud hang over our heart.

Reflecting on his personal interactions with the late Herbert Wigwe, the former VP shared a touching story.

He pointed out Herbert Wigwe’s genuine concern and support, mentioning that even after his term in office, Herbert Wigwe maintained regular contact without seeking any favours.

“However,  we have heard so much about Herbert examplary lifes and times, I have known him for so many years. While I was in office for the entire eight years that I was in office, Herbert called me practically every other month just to say how are you doing never ask for favour.

“But two months before I left office he called me and said he needed to see me and I thought he must have some mission and he came with a note book and I was very surprised because Herbert never ever came with a note book and said he wants to know what my plans are for the future after I left office. I laughed over it but he insisted and he took note diligently of everything that I said I wanted to do. Thereafter he visited me at least three or four times before I left office”

Prof. Osinbajo recalled a particularly poignant meeting two months before leaving office when Hebert Wigwe, with uncharacteristic seriousness, wanted to know the former VP’s plans for the future.

“The Thursday before the week he died, he called me on Tuesday that he is coming to see me on Thursday and he did. He spent about two hours reviewing practically about everything, so many things. The university, philanthropist he was involved in, and various other things,” Prof. Osinbajo reminisced.

“I don’t think any event in recent times for me in particular had so germane and made it clear how important friends are and how important our relationship are. Herbert was someone who walk the talk of brotherhood and friendship, he doesn’t just talk but he walk the talk. He was there for his friends,  associates and we see how deeply he care for his family.”