Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), expressed deep sorrow following the tragic passing of Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings Plc, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, in a helicopter crash in the United States.
In a statement released on Sunday, February 11th, 2024, Elumelu lamented the loss of Wigwe and Ogunbanjo, referring to them as “two of our brightest minds” whose demise is profoundly saddening for Nigeria.
Elumelu, a renowned billionaire businessman, paid tribute to Wigwe, highlighting his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s banking and financial sector through his role at Access Holdings. He also praised Ogunbanjo’s distinguished tenure as Group Chairman of the NGX, marked by a commitment to excellence.
He remarked, “Nigeria, and indeed Africa, has lost two of our brightest minds. I held them both in high esteem, and we all shared a common goal of propelling Nigeria’s transformation forward.”
“Herbert was an exceptional talent, dedicated to driving progress in the banking and financial industry in Nigeria, particularly through his leadership at Access Holdings. Similarly, Bimbo’s tenure as Group Chairman of the NGX group was characterized by excellence,” Elumelu added.
Elumelu continued, “Their absence will be deeply felt by all. Their visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit will serve as guiding lights for millions of our youth.”
Elumelu concluded with a heartfelt wish for the departed souls of Ogunbanjo, Wigwe, his beloved wife Chizoba, and his son Chizi, to rest in perfect peace. He also prayed for strength and grace for their grieving families during this challenging time.
Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo were tragically killed in the helicopter crash in California on Friday, February 9th, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.