Just When Nigeria Needed Herbert Wigwe The Most, He Left -By Zayd Ibn Isah

Few deaths in Nigeria have shaken the country as much as that of Herbert Wigwe.

The news of Herbert Wigwe’s death, alongside his wife, son, and another prominent Nigerian, Abimbola Ogunbajo, in a tragic helicopter crash in the USA, hit Nigeria like a bolt from the blue, leaving the nation reeling in shock and sorrow, as if a mighty tree had fallen in the forest, shaking the very foundations of the land.

Herbert Wigwe’s death occurred amidst the anticipation of the 2023 African Cup of Nations Final between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the host nation, Ivory Coast.

Wigwe was one of the great Nigerians who rose to the top by sheer dint of hard work and determination, a man with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. Until his demise, he was the co-founder of Access Bank and the Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings Ltd.

Though I never had a personal encounter with the man, the little I have read about him is enough evidence to recognize him as a noble soul who cherished his people and ardently advocated for the progress and advancement of our nation.

In an emotional video shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Herbert Wigwe was captured addressing his people, offering reassurance of delivering top-tier education through his envisioned institution, the Herbert Wigwe University. His demeanor and words painted a vivid picture of a man who had achieved significant success in life yet remained deeply rooted in his community. Tragically, his death has dashed his aspirations of realizing this noble dream.

Herbert Wigwe’s death is no doubt, a national tragedy of immense proportion. It came at a moment when Nigeria required every hand on deck to navigate its course towards progress and prosperity. As the saying goes, “In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity,” but his departure leaves us bereft of one of our brightest beacons, extinguishing a flame that once illuminated our path forward.

The death of a philanthropist like him can be described as a loss that leaves a deep void in the fabric of society, similar to the falling of a mighty baobab tree, whose shade provided shelter and sustenance to all who sought refuge beneath it. In times of need, such individuals are like pillars that uphold the community, their absence leaving a gaping hole in the communal support system, akin to removing a vital cog from a well-oiled machine. Their departure also serves as a timely reminder of the transient nature of life, urging us to cherish and appreciate the contributions of those who dedicate themselves to the betterment of others. Just as he said In a tweet posted on his official X handle three weeks before the tragic accident, “Today and always, let us remember that life is a precious gift – a chance to breathe, feel, love, experience and connect.

“Let’s honour this gift by living with purpose, kindness, and gratitude, making every moment count. Let us number our days.”

I agree with everything he said. Life is truly a precious gift. Let’s appreciate it because it has an expiry date. And we can truly appreciate it by being a source of joy and blessing to others.

Adieu, Herbert.

Zayd Ibn Isah can be reached at lawcadet1@gmail.com