Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africa News
Published on 2024-02-12 11:36:01
Herbert Wigwe, the CEO of Access Bank in Nigeria, tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in Southern California’s Mojave Desert. He, along with his wife, son, and three others, were killed in the accident. Their deaths have been mourned by Nigerian leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who expressed his grief on X (Twitter). Wigwe’s passing has been described as an “overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”
Wigwe, aged 57, was a well-respected figure in Nigeria and the banking sector. He was known for his leadership in expanding Access Bank’s assets and presence across several African countries. Sunday Ekwochi, the group company secretary of Access Holdings, praised Wigwe’s passion, energy, and experience for driving the transformation of the Access franchise. Access Bank also recognized Wigwe’s commitment to excellence, describing him as a “larger-than-life personality” whose legacy will continue to inspire others.
Wigwe’s death has been labeled as a significant loss for Nigeria and Africa’s banking industry. He was also involved in the education sector, with plans to open a private university in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region. His philanthropic work and contributions to society were highly regarded by many.
The helicopter crash occurred near Interstate 15, about 75 miles northeast of Barstow. While the cause of the crash is still under investigation, reports indicate that witnesses observed rainy and wintry conditions at the time of the accident. The wreckage site showed evidence of a fire on the helicopter and downed power lines. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a thorough investigation, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days.
The accident has been a tragic event, coming just days after a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter crashed in San Diego’s mountains, claiming the lives of five Marines. Both incidents underscore the importance of safety and precaution in aviation.
As the investigation continues, the focus is on documenting the wreckage and gathering pilot and maintenance records. Given the remote location of the crash site, with an elevation of nearly 3,000 feet, accessible in a 60- to 80-mile drive from Las Vegas, the recovery and investigation process may take time.
The death of Herbert Wigwe and the others on board the helicopter is a profound loss for Nigeria and the financial sector. Their memory and contributions will be deeply cherished by those who knew them. The tragic accident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of continuously improving safety measures in aviation to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
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