Africa’s Richest man and Chairman Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote eulogies the memory of his beloved friend, mentee and brother, Herbert Wigwe at the memorial; Herbert Wigwe: Celebrating A Professional Legacy held in EKO Hotels, Lagos today.
In an emotional tribute, Alhaji Aliko Dangote mentioned how his friend, mentee and brother is a selfless human and a true philanthropist. “Herbert was a visionary, and his legacy in philanthropy will never be forgotten. He was a pillar of strength and support for me and my family. He was proud to be part of my success story and I am proud to name him my devoted friend, mentee and brother ”
As part of ways to immortalise the late banking icon, Herbert Wigwe, Aliko Dangote named the road leading to the Dangote Refinery after him. He revealed this while paying tribute to Wigwe during a tribute by professionals on Monday. This was done in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the project.
The announcement was made on Monday during a special event at Eko Hotel, Lagos, titled ‘Celebrating Herbert Wigwe – A professional legacy.’
The businessman and philanthropist said, “To immortalise my beloved friend, my brother, and my mentee, I have actually decided to name our major refinery and petrochemical road- out of the 120 kilometers, the biggest road will now be named Herbert Wigwe”.
“I remain eternally grateful to Herbert Wigwe for supporting the completion of my projects. He was second to none,” Dangote said. He will remain an unforgettable mentee, friend and brother.
In an emotional laden Night of Tributes, corporate Nigeria and some political titans, Herbert Wigwe, the late Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings was highly celebrated with many eulogies describing the affectionate visionary who lived a valuable life and was described as a titan.
“Herbert Wigwe packed into 57 Years, what most exceptional people will not pack into in two lifetimes, Segun Agbaje, Group CEO, Guaranty Trust Holdings. He continued, Herbert was my colleague, friend, brother, and competitor, only Herbert could have been all those things at once”.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, an entrepreneur and founder of Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation said, “Herbert was committed to building an African continent where men and women can live to their own potential.”
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the State will do something in terms of mortalising late Wigwe.
“My heart is heavy with grief as I mourn the loss of a dear friend, brother, and visionary leader, Herbert Wigwe. Lagos has lost a gem, and I, a trusted and valued friend.
“Herbert was a beacon of hope and progress. His absence leaves a void that words cannot fill”.
Atedo Peterside, a Nigerian entrepreneur, and investment banker, said, “I don’t believe any two individuals are the same. We all have our different destinies. I think that Herbert’s destiny is unique. He had phenomenal energy, talent, he was a visionary, he was a philanthropist, a banker, he was an embodiment of several qualities and that kind of energy level is rare. Multitasking is part of his DNA. We love him, we will miss him.”
Wigwe is hailed as a quintessential banker, esteemed for his unwavering commitment and his ability to hold assets that benefit investors. His relentless pursuit of major achievements serves as a beacon of courage and inspiration for others in the industry.
The Group CEO of Access bank, Dr Herbert Wigwe died in a helicopter crash in the United States, alongside his wife Doreen Chizoba Wigwe, his Son Chizi Wigwe and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former group chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc.
He will be buried alongside his wife, Chizoba and Son Chizzy on Saturday 9th March, 2024 in Isiokpo, Rivers State.
