A Tribute to Dr. Herbert Wigwe: Love, Family, and the Heart of a Legacy
Discover the personal side of Dr. Herbert Wigwe—his love story with Chizoba Wigwe, their family life, values, and the beliefs that shaped his legacy. A tribute to a visionary leader, devoted husband, and father whose impact extends beyond the corporate world.
A Tribute to Dr Herbert Wigwe - Day 2
Dr. Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and unwavering principles. This tribute explores the personal side of a man who was not only a banking visionary but also a devoted husband, father, and philanthropist.
A Love Story That Began in University
Herbert and Chizoba’s love story started during their university years, blossoming into a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Their relationship thrived on quiet support and deep understanding. As Herbert [once shared in an interview](https://www.nairaland.com/7996967/full-biography-late-access-bank), “We grew together. She made me want to be better, every single day.”
Chizoba wasn’t just his wife—she was his confidante and anchor during his rise in banking. Their bond, rooted in faith and intellectual synergy, became a cornerstone of Herbert’s success.
Marriage, Family, and the Art of Balance
Despite his meteoric career, Herbert prioritized family. He and Chizoba crafted a home where ambition and warmth coexisted. From coaching his kids’ soccer matches to guarding Sunday dinners as sacred rituals, Herbert proved that leadership begins at home.
Chizoba’s role was pivotal. As he [explained](https://www.nairaland.com/7996967/full-biography-late-access-bank), “She’s the reason I could take risks.” Her support was unwavering during milestones like [Access Bank’s pan-African expansion](https://tribuneonlineng.com/life-and-times-of-herbert-wigwe/) and the launch of [Wigwe University](https://tribuneonlineng.com/life-and-times-of-herbert-wigwe/), a $500 million project to nurture Africa’s future leaders.
Dad Life: Homework, Values, and Sneaking in Life Lessons
Herbert and Chizoba raised four children—Chizi, Tochi, Hannah, and David—with intention. Dinner tables doubled as classrooms, where debates on current events and ethics unfolded. “If you’re not embarrassed by who you were a year ago, you’re not growing,” he’d tell them, blending wisdom with wit.
But it wasn’t all seriousness. Friends recall Herbert’s goofy dad dances and his secret stash of chocolates, defying Chizoba’s health rules. His parenting philosophy? Prepare kids to fix the world, not just inherit it.
The Man Behind the Suit: Faith, Early Mornings, and the Joy of Giving
Faith First: Herbert’s days began with scripture, calling God his “CEO.” An active [Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG)](https://www.nairaland.com/7996967/full-biography-late-access-bank) pastor, he mentored countless young professionals, weaving faith into leadership.
Philanthropy with Purpose: His collaboration with [UNICEF](https://tribuneonlineng.com/life-and-times-of-herbert-wigwe/) supported vulnerable children in northern Nigeria. When a Wigwe University scholar thanked him, Herbert teared up, whispering to Chizoba, "This is what building looks like.”
Relentless Hustle, Heart intact: Colleagues dubbed him “Nigeria’s Banking Titan,” but Herbert saw work as service. “Don’t just climb the ladder,” he’d say. “Make sure it’s leaning against the right wall.”
The Takeaway: What Really Lasts
Herbert’s legacy isn’t etched in boardrooms but in the lives he uplifted. He passed away tragically on [February 9, 2024](https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/articles/cw8jnyd6jlno), alongside Chizoba and son Chizi. Yet, his impact endures:
- In the halls of [Wigwe University](https://tribuneonlineng.com/life-and-times-of-herbert-wigwe/), where future leaders are shaped.
- In the laughter of his surviving children, who carry his values forward.
- In the Nigerian banking sector, forever transformed by his audacity.
As [tributes pour in globally](https://thesun.ng/herbert-wigwe-his-life-passion-dreams/), we’re reminded: True success isn’t measured in naira or titles, but in love, legacy, and lives changed.
Rest in Power, Dr. Wigwe. Your story lives on in every student you inspired, every family moment you cherished, and every life you touched.
Tomorrow, in Day 3, we will explore The Career Path – From Banker to Industry Leader
This Week Long Tribute Is On behalf of The Access Nation:
Dr. Ohio O. Ojeagbase, FICA, FIDR
Chief Private Investigator/CEO
Kreeno Debt Recovery and Private Investigation Agency
A Subsidiary of KREENO Holdings LLC, USA
- How Non Payment Of Your Debt Affect Your Integrity
- Strengthening Fight Against Financial Fraud in Nigeria
- 1.3BN Fraud: Police To Arraign Obanikoro's Son On February 27
- Debt Repayment And Business Ethics: Why Debt Repayment Enhances A Thriving Economy In Nigeria
For more on his visionary career, explore [Herbert Wigwe’s Wikipedia page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herbert_Wigwe) or watch this [documentary tribute](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wKmgCLsu2Q)
Join us tomorrow for Day 3 of our tribute, where we will explore his remarkable career journey—from his early banking days to becoming a transformative force in Nigeria’s financial sector.
Citations Embedded:
[1] Nairaland Biography | [2] BusinessDay | [3] Wikipedia | [4] YouTube Tribute | [5] BBC Pidgin | [7] Tribune Online | [8] The Sun Nigeria
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