The CEO of Nigeria’s Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, and son were among the six people tragically killed in a helicopter crash in California. The chartered Airbus H130 helicopter, operated by Orbic Air, was en route from Palm Springs to Boulder City, Nevada, when it crashed near Halloran Springs, San Bernardino County. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Witnesses reported rainy and wintry conditions at the time of the crash, and NTSB member Michael Graham stated that the helicopter descended from an altitude of around 1,000 to 1,500 feet, sped up, and impacted the terrain in a nose low and right bank angle. The debris field was about 100 yards long, and all six people on board, including two pilots, tragically lost their lives.
Herbert Wigwe, 57, was a prominent figure in the Nigerian banking industry, known for his leadership at Access Bank and his involvement in the country’s banking sector. The news of his passing has deeply shocked and saddened the Nigerian business community and political leaders. Wigwe was described as a visionary leader, and his death is being mourned as an overwhelming tragedy that has left a profound impact on Nigeria and the African banking industry.
An unconfirmed Video of the helicopter crash that killed the Banking Titan. COURTESY
The crash sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes for Wigwe and the other victims, including his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi, as well as Bamofin Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former chair of the Nigeria Stock Exchange. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and a preliminary report is expected to be released within 30 days, with a full investigation potentially taking up to two years to complete.
The loss of Herbert Wigwe and the other victims has shocked Nigeria and the global banking community, leaving many to reflect on his significant contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.