Meet Our 2023 Honorees: Herbert Wigwe

Herbert Wigwe

NHEF LEADERSHIP IN BUSINESS AWARD

The Leadership in Business Award is a prestigious honour presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the business world. This award recognizes individuals who have exhibited exemplary qualities as business leaders, including innovation, strategic thinking, and a commitment to corporate responsibility.

A Journey of Leadership in Banking and Finance

Mr. Wigwe launched his career at Coopers & Lybrand Associates, a global Chartered Accountants firm. He spent a decade at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, overseeing diverse portfolios, including financial institutions, large corporates, and multinationals.

In March 2002, he co-led Access Bank Plc’s transformation as Deputy Managing Director after departing Guaranty Trust Bank as an Executive Director. He served as Group Managing Director/CEO from January 1, 2014, until May 2022, and currently holds a Non-Executive Director role with the bank since May 2022.

Mr. Wigwe is an alumnus of Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Programme and holds master’s degrees in Banking and International Finance from the University College of North Wales and Financial Economics from the University of London. He earned a B.Sc. in Accounting from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

He chairs The Access Bank (UK) Ltd and is a Non-Executive Director for Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company Plc, FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange, Shared Agents Network Expansion Facilities Ltd, and Agri-Business/SME Enterprises Investment Scheme. Additionally, Mr. Wigwe is a member of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.

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