March 2024 ACCOMPLISH Magazine

Tributes...
friend, and visionary who left an indelible mark on my
life and the lives of many others.
My journey with Herbert began in a remarkable
chapter of my life, right after my start-up was acquired.
I was a young engineer/entrepreneur, barely 30,
stepping into a senior role at one of the largest banks
in Africa, Access Bank. It was Herbert who believed in
my potential to spearhead digital transformation, a
task that seemed daunting but was made achievable
through his guidance and faith in me.
Herbert was not just a boss; he was a mentor who
shared his entrepreneurial journey with me. He cofounded
a bank around the same age I was then.
“Why can’t you do the same?” he would challenge me,
pushing me to expand the horizons of my ambition.
“GB, what’s the size of your ambition?” he would ask,
a question that echoed in my mind and drove me to
dream bigger, to aim higher. He was one of the few
who not only encouraged my dreams but insisted they
were not crazy enough. Under his mentorship, I learned
the art of setting monumental goals and the strategic
planning required to achieve them. This guidance was
crucial in shaping my approach to angel investing.
“Why wait to invest back in Africa?” Herbert would say.
“Who is the next GB? Back them... Make the journey
easier for the next guy.”
Herbert’s influence was instrumental in the early
successes of Flutterwave. Despite not owning a single
stock in Flutterwave, he went above and beyond
to support us. He travelled with me and my cofounders,
meeting investors and potential customers,
demonstrating a commitment that went far beyond
professional obligation. In tough times, Herbert’s
wisdom was a beacon of hope. “Hang in there…
Only the test of fire makes very fine steel!!” he would
text, always ready to offer advice and assistance. I
remember vividly when I met Satya Nadella personally,
and upon sharing this with Herbert, his response was a
testament to his unwavering belief in us: “I told you, you
can build this. You can do what I have done. I am proud
of you.” Recently, Herbert shared with me his vision
for Wigwe University, a testament to his never-ending
aspiration to uplift and transform. “Imagine a world
where you can do your PhD in Nigeria and receive
a world-class education?” he mused. His vision for
Africa’s development was boundless, always thinking
of ways to elevate our continent on the global stage.
Herbert’s sudden departure is a profound loss.
When we had a difference of opinion, he always
separated the person from the issue, a true mark of his
character and leadership. His passing leaves a void not
just in the professional world but in my heart. He wasn’t
just a leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and a source
of inspiration. As we mourn Herbert Wigwe, his wife
Chizoba Wigwe, son Chizi, and Mr. Abimbola Ogunbajo,
we celebrate the extraordinary life he led and the
countless lives he touched. His legacy is a beacon that
will continue to inspire us to extend a helping hand and
make a difference in the world.
You shouldn’t have gone so soon, sir. Your
absence is deeply felt, but your impact will forever be
remembered.
Rest in peace, Boss.
Regards,
GB
Zenith Bank Plc:
We mourn with the Wigwe family
and Access Holdings on the sudden
transition of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his
wife Chizoba, and his son, Chizi.
Dr. Wigwe was an inspiring leader
devoted to positive change and
human empowerment. He left indelible footprints not
only as the Group CEO of Access Holdings, but also with
his numerous contributions to the advancement of the
financial services industry and growth of the Nigerian
economy.
In this trying period, we remember the values he lived
by and his humble and generous nature that made
him so dear to many.
We reflect on the impact he had in the lives of
others and thank God Almighty for the legacy he left
behind. May the souls of Herbert, Chizoba and Chizi rest
in the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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