Herbert Wigwe was a financial powerhouse in Nigeria’s banking sector. As the CEO of Access Bank, he played a crucial role in expanding the institution into a leading African bank. But how did he accumulate his wealth?
What was his salary as a top banking executive? This article breaks down his financial journey, investments, and impact on the industry.
Herbert Wigwe Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe |
| Popular Name | Herbert Wigwe |
| Birth Date | August 15, 1966 |
| Age (as of 02/24/2025) | 57 (Died: February 9, 2024) |
| Birthplace | Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Nigeria, Nsukka; University College of North Wales; University of London; Harvard Business School |
| Marital Status | Married (1994) |
| Spouse | Doreen Chizoba Wigwe (née Nwuba) |
| Children | 5 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Father – Director General of Nigerian Television Authority; Mother – Nurse |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Source of Wealth | Banking, Business |
What is the Net Worth of Herbert Wigwe in 2025?
Herbert Wigwe’s net worth was estimated at $100 million at the time of his passing in 2024. His wealth stemmed from his leadership at Access Bank, one of Nigeria’s largest financial institutions. While he was no longer accumulating wealth in 2025, his legacy remains strong.
His net worth placed him among Nigeria’s wealthiest banking executives, alongside other industry leaders. If he had continued his career, his financial status could have expanded further through planned expansions into Asia.
Related Figures in Banking & Finance
- Access Bank
- Diamond Bank
- Guaranty Trust Bank
- Central Bank of Nigeria
- Aliko Dangote
- Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede
- Nigerian Exchange Group
- African financial market
- Stock market investors
- Wealth management firms
For more insights into high-profile fortunes, explore the wealthiest public figures in banking and business.
Herbert Wigwe Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Build His Wealth?
Herbert Wigwe’s financial journey started at Coopers & Lybrand, where he became a chartered accountant. His banking career took off when he joined Guaranty Trust Bank, where he climbed the ranks to executive director.
In 2002, he made a game-changing move by acquiring Access Bank alongside Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede. At the time, their bid was initially rejected by the Central Bank of Nigeria, but they persisted. From that moment, Wigwe transformed Access Bank from a small institution into a major player in African finance.
What Was His Salary and Earnings at Access Bank?
As CEO and Group Managing Director of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe was among the highest-paid banking executives in Nigeria. His exact salary was not publicly disclosed, but his earnings included:
- Base salary as CEO
- Performance bonuses tied to bank profits
- Equity holdings in Access Bank
- Executive benefits like stock options and allowances
Given that Access Bank became Nigeria’s largest bank by assets after merging with Diamond Bank in 2019, it’s safe to say his compensation reflected this success.
What Were His Major Investments and Financial Assets?
Herbert Wigwe’s wealth extended beyond his salary. His investments and assets included:
- Banking stakes: He held shares in Access Bank and its subsidiaries.
- Business ventures: He co-founded initiatives like The HOW Foundation, which focused on youth empowerment.
- Philanthropy and leadership: He funded financial inclusion programs and was an advocate for banking reforms.
He also played a key role in Access Bank’s global expansion, with operations in Zambia, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, and the UK. Before his passing, he had plans to expand into Asia.
How Did He Influence the Nigerian Banking Industry?
Herbert Wigwe wasn’t just a banker—he was a transformational leader. His key contributions included:
- Leading Access Bank’s merger with Diamond Bank, making it the largest bank in Nigeria.
- Expanding Access Bank’s customer base across Africa and beyond.
- Partnering with global institutions like UNICEF to drive financial inclusivity.
- Advocating for banking regulations and policies under the Central Bank of Nigeria.
His work helped shape Nigeria’s banking sector and set a benchmark for financial leadership.
What Was His Financial Legacy and Economic Impact?
Herbert Wigwe’s impact on the financial world was undeniable. His legacy includes:
- Expanding banking access across Africa, boosting financial inclusion.
- Inspiring future banking leaders with his corporate leadership strategies.
- Creating one of Africa’s largest banking institutions, setting the stage for continued growth.
His vision for Access Bank continues to shape Nigeria’s economy, even after his passing.
Conclusion
Herbert Wigwe’s financial journey was nothing short of remarkable. From a young accountant to the head of Nigeria’s largest bank, his impact on banking and finance remains unmatched. His wealth, investments, and leadership continue to inspire the industry.
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