Since the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the founding Group CEO of Access Holding Plc on 9 February 2024, the tech community has been reflecting on his profound impact on their lives and businesses.
Many tech founders and executives have been pouring out their admiration and gratitude for the role he played in shaping their journeys.
A Mentor and Patron to Many
To Ola Brown, founder of HealthCap, Wigwe was not just a CEO but an oracle, providing a blueprint for success.
She described him as her oracle, akin to Warren Buffet, guiding her with a roadmap of hard work, discipline, and hustle.
Wigwe’s influence extended far beyond mere business transactions.
For many, he was a mentor, a patron, and a sponsor. Companies like Flutterwave, Africa’s most valuable fintech, Unified Payments, and SystemSpecs owe much of their success to his guidance and support.
The Catalyst Behind Flutterwave
For Gbenga ‘GB’ Agboola and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founders of Flutterwave, Wigwe was the reason their company exists today.
Despite not owning shares in Flutterwave, Wigwe took a big chance on the fintech unicorn, accompanying them to San Francisco to pitch to Silicon Valley investors.
His endorsement opened doors and gave them the credibility needed to grow into Africa’s most valuable startup.
Empowering Remita’s Expansion
SystemSpecs’ Remita, while not globally recognized like Flutterwave, is the preferred payment solutions provider for Nigeria’s public sector.
Access Bank, under Wigwe’s leadership, played a pivotal role in securing approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria for Remita’s payday loan service, which benefited federal workers and millions of salary earners.
This collaboration not only facilitated access to loans but also opened up the retail lending space, benefiting over 50 licensed lenders.
Advocating for Innovation in Banking
Herbert Wigwe was a driving force behind the adoption of the Biometric Verification System (BVN) in Nigeria in 2014 and the establishment of the banking agent network in 2018.
His strategic investments in Unified Payments and eTranzact further underscore his commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.
A Lasting Legacy
Wigwe’s impact transcended financial investments.
His visionary approach to financial technology transformed the industry and left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
His legacy serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding them of the importance of hard work, innovation, and mentorship in achieving success.
In conclusion, Herbert Wigwe’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those he inspired and supported.
His contributions to the tech industry in Nigeria will be remembered for years to come, a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to driving innovation and growth.
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