Access Bank, a leading Nigerian financial institution, recently appointed an interim CEO following the tragic demise of Herbert Wigwe, the CEO, who died in a helicopter crash last Friday, along with five others.
In a recent statement, Access Holdings Plc, the parent company of Access Bank, revealed that Bolaji Agbede, the bank’s longest-serving founding executive director, will assume the role of interim CEO.
Ms Agbede joined Access Bank in 2003 and has almost 30 years of experience in banking and business consulting, the company said, according to the BBC.
Wigwe’s private helicopter was traveling from Palm Springs to Boulder City in Nevada in the United States when it crashed, about 96 km (60 miles) from Las Vegas.
The 57-year-old banker was traveling to Las Vegas to attend Sunday’s Super Bowl, local media reported.
Wigwe founded Access Bank in 1989 and became one of Nigeria’s largest banks in 2018 after acquiring its main competitor, Diamond Bank.
This appointment of Bolaji Agbede as interim CEO of Access Bank brings temporary stability to the company following the tragic death of Herbert Wigwe. With almost 30 years of banking and business experience, Ms. Agbede has the skills to lead the bank through this transitional period. It is also a sign of confidence on the part of Access Holdings Plc in its internal staff, by choosing a senior founding executive director to fill this position.
The disappearance of Herbert Wigwe in this helicopter accident is a shock to the entire Nigerian banking industry. Wigwe was a respected leader and pioneer in the banking sector. His death leaves a great void and it will be difficult to find someone to replace him who matches his talent and vision.
Access Bank will now have to focus on the transition and finding a permanent successor to Herbert Wigwe. This is a crucial process, as the new CEO will be responsible for continuing the growth and success of the bank, following the vision and values established by Wigwe.
Pending this permanent appointment, Bolaji Agbede will lead Access Bank and work with the management team to maintain the stability of the business and ensure operations continue to run smoothly. While it is a time of mourning, it is important that the bank remains strong and focused on its objectives.
At this difficult time, our thoughts are with the family of Herbert Wigwe and all those affected by this tragedy. Herbert Wigwe will leave a lasting legacy in the Nigerian banking industry and his leadership will always be lauded and admired.