Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, became visibly emotional on Wednesday while honoring the memory of Herbert Wigwe, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc.
During a gathering commemorating the life of the 57-year-old, the ex-Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor expressed his deep sentiments, remarking, “I had envisioned a future without Herbert. We’ve all heard of him, of his unwavering loyalty,” he uttered with a heavy heart.
Illustrating Herbert’s commitment, Lamido recounted an instance where Herbert arranged a plane for him at the Kano airport to transport him to Lagos. “When I faced challenges in Kano, I reached out to him six months before I was asked to leave. I confided, ‘Herbert, I appreciate your efforts to resolve these issues, but I fear this outcome is inevitable,'” Sanusi recalled.
“He assured me, ‘Your Highness, fret not. Whatever happens, we stand by you.’ Upon learning of my dethronement, I contacted him, expressing my desire to relocate to Lagos. By noon, Herbert had a plane waiting at the Kano airport. The plan was to send my family into exile for an indefinite period. Without hesitation, I entrusted my family to him, with no prior notice. Herbert welcomed them, arranging accommodation and support. For months, they found solace under his care. Your Highness, whenever you wish to travel, just inform Shola.”
Sanusi further credited the late Access Bank CEO, along with his partner Aig Imoukhuede, for their pivotal role in his achievements during his tenure at the apex bank. Recalling a critical moment in the banking sector, he remarked, “Aig and Herbert, appointed as chairpersons for the subcommittee on economic development, played a vital role in aligning banking assets with the real economy. Much of my success at the Central Bank was indebted to their collaboReflection
Reflecting on his children’s education, Sanusi disclosed, “Two years ago, I entrusted my savings to secure my children’s education, prioritizing their future. Paul, the solicitor, was assigned to manage the trust, with Herbert as the lead protector. During our initial meeting, I entrusted Herbert with overseeing the trust, confident that even in my absence, he would ensure our children’s education.”
