Tragedy Strikes: CEO of Nigerian Bank and Five Others Killed in California Helicopter Crash
In a devastating turn of events, the CEO of one of Nigeria’s largest banks, Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife, son, and three other individuals, lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Southern California’s Mojave Desert. The shocking incident occurred late on Friday evening, leaving the nation in mourning and the banking sector reeling from the loss. Wigwe, who served as the chief executive of Access Bank, was widely regarded as an industry leader and had played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of the bank’s presence across Africa.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed his grief and offered condolences in a heartfelt post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. He wrote, “Their passing is an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension. I pray for the peaceful repose of the departed and ask God Almighty to comfort the multitude of Nigerians who are grieving and the families of the deceased at this deeply agonizing moment.”
Herbert Wigwe was not only a prominent figure in the banking industry but also a visionary leader who had made significant contributions to Nigeria’s educational sector. He had established a private university in the country’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, which was scheduled to open its doors in September. Wigwe had expressed that the university was his way of giving back to society—a testament to his commitment to excellence and compassion.
Under Wigwe’s stewardship, Access Bank witnessed exponential growth, expanding its assets and presence beyond Nigerian borders into several African countries. Sunday Ekwochi, the group company secretary of Access Holdings, spoke highly of Wigwe’s contributions, stating, “Dr. Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise.”
The news of Wigwe’s untimely demise has left a void not only in Nigeria but also in Africa’s banking industry. Nigerian presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga described it as “a terrible blow” and emphasized Wigwe’s ambition to make Access Holdings the biggest in Africa. His unquenchable thirst for acquisitions and determination to propel the bank to new heights had earned him the respect and admiration of many.
The helicopter crash occurred south of Interstate 15 near Halloran Springs Road, approximately 75 miles northeast of Barstow, according to Michael Graham of the National Transportation Safety Board. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft hit the ground at a low altitude with its nose down at a right-bank angle. Meteorologists have confirmed the presence of precipitation in the area during the time of the accident.
The tragic incident took place just days before Super Bowl 58, where the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers were set to clash in Las Vegas, Nevada. The ill-fated flight was en route from Palm Springs Airport to Boulder City, Nevada, located southeast of Las Vegas. Witnesses reported seeing a fire on the helicopter and downed power lines at the crash site, along with rainy and wintry conditions.
As investigators begin their painstaking process of mapping the crash site and examining the wreckage, questions surrounding the cause of the crash loom. The lack of cockpit voice recorders and flight data recorders on the aircraft may complicate the investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days, with a full investigation potentially taking up to two years to complete.
The crash site, situated near the California-Nevada border, is a remote and desolate area known for an abandoned gas station with a sign reading “Lo Gas” and “Eat.” With an elevation of nearly 3,000 feet, it is a significant distance from Las Vegas, requiring a 60- to 80-mile drive.
The loss of Herbert Wigwe, his family, and the other victims of the helicopter crash is a profound tragedy that has left Nigeria and the banking industry in a state of shock. The legacy of Wigwe’s excellence and compassion will continue to inspire many, and his untimely demise serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life. As the nation mourns, it is essential to remember the immense contributions made by these individuals and the impact they had on their respective fields.
