Gloomy news: Over the weekend, a tragedy gripped the Nigerian (and African) communities, especially those in the business and finance sectors, as Herbert Wigwe, the co-founder and group CEO of Access Holdings, died in a helicopter crash in California. A source close to the deceased, who confirmed the news to thecondia.com, mentioned that Wigwe’s wife, son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former group chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, were also involved.
Sunday Ekwochi, the company secretary at Access Holding, confirmed the passing in a statement released on Sunday afternoon. Ekwochi also stated that an acting group CEO will be announced soon.
Amidst an outpouring of tributes, this quote from Wigwe, who recently established the $500 million Wigwe University in his home state of Rivers, resonates deeply. It reflects the driving force behind his global ambition: “I cannot change the world overnight. But if I can empower even one youth today, or tomorrow, they could join me in empowering others. With time, we could change the world.”
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Last updated: January 28, 2026
