Herbert Wigwe Net Worth, Source of Income and Bio
Herbert Wigwe Biography
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe, born on August 15, 1966, was a prominent figure in the Nigerian banking industry. His journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of Africa’s leading bankers is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and vision.
PROFILE SUMMARY
- Full Name: Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe
- Born: August 15, 1966 (age 57 years old)
- Place of Birth: Isiokpo, Rivers State, Nigeria
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Education: University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University College of North Wales, University of London, and Harvard Business School Executive Management Program
- Spouse: Chizoba Wigwe
- Girlfriend • Partner: N/A
- Children: Chizi, Tochi, Hannah, and David Wigwe
- Occupation: Banking & Finance
- Net Worth: approximately $65.2 million and $680 million
Early Life & Education
Born in Isiokpo, Rivers State, Nigeria, Wigwe’s parents instilled in him the value of education. His father served as the Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority, and his mother was a nurse. This background laid the foundation for Wigwe’s pursuit of academic excellence.
Wigwe earned a bachelor’s degree in accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1987. His thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. In 1990, he received a scholarship from the British Council to study at the University College of North Wales, where he earned a Master of Arts in Banking and Finance in 1991. He furthered his education by obtaining an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London in 1996. He also attended the Harvard Business School Executive Management Program.
Career & Achievements
Wigwe began his career at Coopers & Lybrand as a management consultant in the late 1980s, becoming a chartered accountant in 1989. He later joined Guaranty Trust Bank, where he worked for over a decade, eventually becoming an executive director around 1998.
In 2002, Wigwe and his business partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede bought Access Bank. Despite initial concerns from the Central Bank of Nigeria about their age, they successfully transformed the bank into one of Nigeria’s top five banking institutions. Wigwe served as the company’s deputy managing director from 2002 to 2014, after which he became the CEO and group managing director of Access Bank.
Under Wigwe’s leadership, Access Bank merged with Diamond Bank in 2018, making it the largest bank in Nigeria. He had plans to expand the bank into Asia in early 2024, but his untimely death prevented this expansion from taking place.
Personal Life
Wigwe was married to Chizoba Wigwe (née Nwuba), and they had four children together: Chizi, Tochi, Hannah, and David. A devoted family man and Christian, he was actively involved in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
Net Worth & Source of Income
Wigwe’s net worth was estimated to be between $65.2 million and $680 million, positioning him as one of the wealthiest bankers in Africa. His wealth primarily came from his successful career in banking and the stakes he held at Access Bank.
Legacy
Wigwe’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to the banking industry. He was involved in the creation of a leadership series known as the Access Conference, and in 2016, he founded The HOW Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on fostering education and healthcare.
Cause of Death
Wigwe’s life was tragically cut short on February 9, 2024, when he, his wife, and their son died in a helicopter crash in the United States. His death was a significant loss to the Nigerian banking sector and the wider community. However, his legacy lives on in the institutions he helped build and the lives he touched. His story continues to inspire future generations of African entrepreneurs and leaders.
