Dr. Herbert Wigwe is a Nigerian banker and entrepreneur. He is currently CEO and Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, a leading Nigerian banking institution and the largest bank in Africa by customer numbers. Herbert has a degree in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, an MA in Banking and Finance from the University College of North Wales (now Bangor), an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London, and is an Alumnus of the Harvard Business School Executive Management Program.
In 2002, Herbert and his business partner, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, saw a unique opportunity and acquired what was then a small commercial bank, Access Bank – at the time, the 65th largest of the 89 banks in the country. Access Bank is now a strong, efficient and digitally led tier-1 franchise, spanning three continents and 12 countries, with 29 million customers. It has 28,000 staff across more than 600 branches.
As one of Nigeria’s foremost corporate bankers, Herbert has helped develop some of Africa’s biggest companies through a unique model, which involves understanding and providing financial support and expertise. Being a seasoned entrepreneur, Herbert appreciates the innovative potential of young people and actively invests in the development of the youth through making out time to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs.
His flair for Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainable banking practices has seen the Bank receive a lot of associated accolades, which have positioned the Bank as a leader in corporate citizenship. In April 2019 Access Bank listed Africa’s first Climate Bonds Standard fully certified corporate Green Bond on the NSE and FMDQ in Nigeria.
His career in financial services spans more than 27 years including over 17 years as Deputy Managing Director and subsequently CEO of Access Bank. Since January 2014, he has been CEO and Group Managing Director of Access Bank.