The Nigerian financial sector is in mourning following the tragic death of Access Holdings Group CEO, Herbert Wigwe, in a helicopter crash in California on February 9, 2024. In this difficult time, the Board acted quickly by appointing Bolaji Agbede as Acting Director General.
Bolaji Agbede is a well-known figure within the Access Holdings Group, having served as Director of Human Resources for twelve years, before being promoted to Executive Director of Business Support Activities. His expertise and in-depth knowledge of banking earned him this well-deserved promotion.
Between the appointment of Bolaji Agbede and the death of Herbert Wigwe, the stock of Access Holdings saw a decline of 6.26%, which caused concern among shareholders. The rapid appointment of a new leader shows the desire of the Board of Directors to maintain the stability and continuity of the company.
Access Bank, the main subsidiary of Access Holdings, is Nigeria’s largest bank by assets and has 42 million African customers across twelve countries. Under the leadership of Herbert Wigwe and his partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Access Bank has become a giant of African finance, playing a vital role in the economic development of the continent.
The death of Herbert Wigwe caused shock waves among the business community, witnessed by visits from personalities such as tycoon Aliko Dangote. This tragic accident also prompted the American authorities to open an investigation to determine the causes of the accident.
During this time of transition, it is essential that Bolaji Agbede and the Access Holdings management team stay the course and continue to innovate in the financial sector. The appointment of Bolaji Agbede as Acting Managing Director demonstrates confidence in her expertise and ability to ensure the continuity of the business.
We wish Bolaji Agbede and the Access Holdings team all the courage and determination necessary to face this difficult period and continue the work undertaken by Herbert Wigwe for the financial development of Africa.