Wigwe and five others died in a devastating helicopter crash in California on Friday. The incident sent shockwaves across continents, leaving a deep sense of loss in its wake.
Wigwe and five others died in a devastating helicopter crash in California on Friday. The incident sent shockwaves across continents, leaving a deep sense of loss in its wake.
Herbert Wigwe, a towering figure in Nigeria’s financial landscape, co-founded Access Bank, which grew under his leadership to become the largest bank in Nigeria. With a visionary approach and a commitment to innovation, Wigwe transformed Access Bank into a powerhouse institution known for its robust services and expansive reach. His sudden demise in the California helicopter crash has left a profound void in the banking sector and beyond, marking the end of an era characterized by his remarkable leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.
Orbic Air, LLC, operated the charter flight. Several people traveling on I-15 witnessed the crash and called 911, Graham said, and he encouraged them to contact the NTSB with more information, including photos and video.
According to Graham, witnesses reported that it was raining with a “wintry mix” when the crash occurred. People also reported a fire on the helicopter and some downed power lines.
“This marks the start of a long process. “We will not jump to any conclusions,” Graham stated at a news conference Saturday night. We also “expressed our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragedy.”
The crash site is close to the California–Nevada border. Halloran Springs Road crosses the highway in an area known to travelers as an abandoned gas station with the signs “Lo Gas” and “Eat.” It’s a remote desert area with an elevation of nearly 3,000 feet (914.40 meters) and a distance of 60-80 miles (100-130 kilometers) from Las Vegas.
Here are the main facts about the tragic event:
- The helicopter, a Eurocopter EC 130, crashed Friday night near Nipton, California, killing all six people on board. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash to determine the cause.
- Following the crash, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that no survivors had been found, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
- According to multiple media outlets, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, and their child were among those killed in the crash. The death of Wigwe, a well-known figure in Nigeria’s banking sector, has sent shockwaves throughout the industry and beyond.
- Furthermore, Abimbola Ogunbanjoa, a former president of the Nigerian stock exchange, was tragically killed in the crash, adding to the sense of loss in Nigeria’s business community.
KEY BACKGROUND
Wigwe’s Access Bank became Nigeria’s largest bank in 2018 after acquiring rival Diamond Bank. In recent years, the bank has worked to expand in Africa and beyond, and it was on track to launch a new banking service in Asia this year. The bank was founded in 1989. He was also in the process of establishing his university in Nigeria, Wigwe University, which was set to open in September.
According to Semafor, Wigwe was on his way to Las Vegas for Sunday’s Super Bowl when the tragic accident happened. His death has sent shockwaves throughout Nigeria and beyond, with colleagues, friends, and admirers paying tribute.
According to multiple reports, Herbert Wigwe, co-founder of Nigeria’s largest bank, and five others were killed in a devastating helicopter crash in California on Friday. The incident involved a Eurocopter EC 130 helicopter and occurred near Nipton, California. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) are currently conducting investigations.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that no survivors had been found after the crash. According to various media reports, Wigwe, his wife, and their child were among the victims. The tragic death of Wigwe, a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s banking sector, has had a profound impact on the industry, prompting condolences from all over the world.
Furthermore, Abimbola Ogunbanjoa, a former president of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, was reported to have died in the crash, exacerbating the sadness in Nigeria’s business community. According to Semafor, Wigwe was on his way to Las Vegas for Sunday’s Super Bowl when the accident occurred. The news of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences.
