Emir Sanusi Gets Emotional: I Never Expected to Outlive Wigwe
The Evening of Tributes for the late Group Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe, continued in Lagos yesterday. The leader of the Tijjaniyya movement and 14th Emir of Kano, Mohammed Sanusi, along with business leaders and politicians, gathered to honor and remember Herbert Wigwe.
Emir Sanusi became emotional several times while remembering Herbert Wigwe. Each time he got teary, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Aig-Imoukhuede, and an aide comforted him. They were all deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash that took the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife Doreen, son Chizzy, and former Managing Director of Nigerian Exchange Group, Abimbola Ogunbanjo.
Vice President Kashim Shettima and Alhaji Aliko Dangote also shared their heartfelt memories of Herbert. Sanusi talked about how Herbert had been kind to him and his family, supporting them during tough times.
Vice President Shettima spoke about Herbert’s early successes and his dream to build the “Harvard of Africa.” He also mentioned the loss of Herbert’s wife, son, and others, saying it was a sad time for many.
Henry Imasekha, Chairman/CEO of Berkeley Group Plc, shared stories of Herbert’s determination and quick thinking. He told a story about how Herbert secured a big account with Aliko Dangote for GTBank.
Representative for the French government, Franck Riester, expressed sorrow for the loss of Herbert Wigwe and his companions in the accident. He conveyed condolences from President Emmanuel Macron and praised Herbert as an exceptional person.
Kayode Ayeni, Chairman of Zillenium Limited, remembered his childhood friendship with Herbert, calling him “RBD.” He shared memories of their carefree days and how they stayed connected throughout their lives.
Olushola Faleye, Herbert’s personal aide, talked about their journey to Palm Springs and their last moments before the accident. He described Herbert’s calmness and their discussions about flying at night.
The Evening of Tributes was a sad but also a celebratory event. Friends, colleagues, and dignitaries came together to honor Herbert Wigwe’s life and legacy. Through tears and heartfelt stories, they remembered a man who had a big impact on many lives and left a lasting mark on the banking industry and beyond.
