Herbert Wigwe was a prominent Nigerian businessman, banker, and philanthropist known for his significant contributions to the Nigerian banking sector. He is best recognized as the CEO of Access Bank, one of the largest and most successful commercial banks in Africa. Throughout his career, Herbert has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, financial acumen, and a passion for development, which have earned him a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most influential figures in the financial industry.
Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Full Name | Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe |
| Date of Birth | 15 August 1966 |
| Date of Death | 9 February 2024 |
| Education | – University of Nigeria, Nsukka (B.Sc. in Accounting) |
| – University of Lagos (MBA) |
| – Harvard Business School (Advanced Management Program) |
| Career Start | Began career in banking at Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) in the early 1990s |
| Notable Positions | – Co-founder, Access Bank (2002) |
| – CEO, Access Bank (2014 – 2024) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $100 million |
| Key Contributions | – Expanded Access Bank to become one of Africa’s largest banks |
| – Led acquisitions of smaller banks like Intercontinental Bank and Diamond Bank |
| – Focused on digital banking and financial inclusion |
| Family | – Married to Chizoba Wigwe (Deceased) |
| – Focus on education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and community development |
| Cars & Lifestyle | – Owns luxury cars (e.g., Range Rover, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz) |
| – Maintains a low-key, private lifestyle despite his wealth |
Early Life and Education:
Herbert Wigwe was born in 1966 in Lagos, Nigeria. His early life and family background played a crucial role in shaping his career. While not much is widely known about his parents, Herbert has expressed how important his family’s support and values were in his formative years. He grew up in Lagos, where he developed an interest in business and finance early on.
For his education, Herbert Wigwe attended prestigious institutions both in Nigeria and abroad. He studied at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he earned a degree in Accounting. His academic journey didn’t stop there. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Lagos. He also completed advanced management training at the prestigious Harvard Business School, which contributed to his strong foundation in financial management and leadership.
Herbert Wigwe Career Journey:
Herbert Wigwe’s career began in the banking sector in the early 1990s, when he joined Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), one of Nigeria’s leading banks. Over the years, Herbert climbed the corporate ladder and gained valuable experience in various aspects of banking. His expertise in investment banking, corporate finance, and financial advisory made him a standout talent in the industry.
In 2002, he co-founded Access Bank, initially starting with the role of Group Executive Director. Herbert’s involvement in the early days of the bank played a significant role in its growth. His leadership abilities were soon recognized, and in 2014, he was appointed the CEO of Access Bank. Under his stewardship, the bank expanded significantly, both in Nigeria and internationally, including acquisitions of smaller banks like Intercontinental Bank and Diamond Bank, positioning Access Bank as one of the top financial institutions on the African continent.
Wigwe’s strategic leadership and vision have earned him accolades, including being named one of the most influential people in the Nigerian banking industry. His innovative approach and focus on digital banking and inclusivity have helped modernize Access Bank, positioning it as a leader in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Herbert Wigwe’s Net Worth:
Herbert Wigwe has amassed significant wealth throughout his career, primarily through his role as CEO of Access Bank. His strategic management and leadership have contributed to the tremendous growth and success of the bank. As of 2025, Herbert Wigwe’s estimated net worth is valued at approximately $100 million.
His wealth can be attributed to both his salary as the CEO of Access Bank and his investments in various sectors, including finance, real estate, and other businesses. Through his leadership, Herbert has been instrumental in increasing the bank’s market capitalization, expanding its customer base, and solidifying its position as one of Africa’s largest banks.
Herbert Wigwe’s Family:
Herbert Wigwe was married to Doreen Chizoba Wigwe (née Nwuba), and together they had five children. Tragically, their son Chizi Wigwe lost his life alongside his parents in a helicopter crash. The couple’s surviving children include Tochi (Otutochi), Hannah, David, and Chizzy.
Herbert Wigwe Cars and Lifestyle:
As a successful businessman, Herbert Wigwe enjoyed the privileges that come with his wealth and status. His lifestyle reflects his success, and he has been seen in various luxury vehicles, consistent with the image of a top Nigerian executive. Though he is not overly flashy or known for displaying ostentatious wealth, Herbert’s cars and lifestyle indicate his love for comfort and quality.
Herbert has been spotted in luxury brands such as Range Rover, Bentley, and Mercedes-Benz. These vehicles are often associated with his status as one of Nigeria’s most influential businessmen. Additionally, Herbert’s lifestyle includes a taste for fine dining, travel, and exclusive events, which are typical of high-net-worth individuals in his position.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herbert Wigwe’s educational background?
Herbert Wigwe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He also earned a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Lagos and attended the Harvard Business School for advanced management training.
How many children does Herbert Wigwe have?
Herbert Wigwe and his wife, Doreen Chizoba Wigwe, have five children. Tragically, their son Chizi Wigwe passed away in a helicopter crash alongside his parents. The surviving children are Tochi (Otutochi), Hannah, David, and Chizzy.
What was Herbert Wigwe’s net worth in 2021?
In 2021, Herbert Wigwe’s estimated net worth was around $50 million. His wealth came primarily from his role as the CEO of Access Bank, as well as his investments in other business ventures. Access Bank had grown significantly under his leadership, contributing to his financial success.
What was Herbert Wigwe’s net worth in 2022?
By 2022, Herbert Wigwe’s net worth had increased to an estimated $65 million. The growth in his wealth was a result of continued success at Access Bank, which expanded further and maintained its position as one of Africa’s largest financial institutions.
What was Herbert Wigwe’s net worth in 2023?
As of 2023, Herbert Wigwe’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $90 million. His wealth continued to grow as Access Bank expanded its reach both locally and internationally, while also benefiting from his strategic leadership and investments in various sectors.
Social Media Handle
Instagram: @herbertowigwe
