Access Holdings Plc, a prominent financial institution in Nigeria, has announced a significant leadership transition following the tragic loss of its former Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Herbert Wigwe.

In the wake of Dr. Wigwe’s untimely demise in a helicopter crash alongside his family and another distinguished figure in Nigeria’s financial landscape, Abimboloa Ogunbanjo, the company has appointed Bolaji Agbede as the acting Group Chief Executive Officer.

Dr. Herbert Wigwe, who served as the Group CEO, was widely respected in the banking sector for his leadership acumen and strategic vision. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the industry and beyond, prompting Access Holdings Plc to swiftly move to ensure continuity and stability within the organization.

In a statement released by Access Bank, the appointment of Bolaji Agbede is described as a measure to maintain operational continuity and uphold the company’s commitment to delivering value to its stakeholders. The statement also highlights that the appointment is subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria, underlining the regulatory processes involved in such transitions.

Ms. Bolaji Agbede brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role as the Acting Group CEO. Having previously served in various leadership capacities within Access Bank, she is well-versed in the intricacies of the organization’s operations and strategic objectives. Her appointment reflects the company’s confidence in her ability to navigate the challenges ahead and steer Access Holdings Plc towards continued success.

The sudden and tragic loss of Dr. Herbert Wigwe has undoubtedly left a void within Access Holdings Plc and the broader banking community in Nigeria. As the company mourns the loss of a visionary leader, it is also faced with the task of ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining business continuity. The appointment of Bolaji Agbede signals the company’s determination to uphold its legacy of excellence and resilience in the face of adversity.

As Access Holdings Plc embarks on this new chapter under the stewardship of Bolaji Agbede, the company remains committed to its core values of integrity, innovation, and customer-centricity. The challenges ahead may be daunting, but with a capable leader at the helm and a dedicated team behind her, Access Bank is poised to overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever.

In honoring the legacy of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Access Holdings Plc pays tribute to his vision and leadership, pledging to build upon the foundation he laid and chart a course towards continued growth and prosperity. The appointment of Bolaji Agbede is not just a leadership transition but a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Access Bank in the face of adversity.

About Bolaji Agbede

Bolaji Agbede is a versatile professional with over 27 years’ experience in Human Resources management, customer relationship management and banking operations. She has a proven record of successful people integration during mergers and acquisitions, culture transformation and execution of corporate strategies.

Bolaji commenced her professional career in Guaranty Trust Bank and served in various capacities including Relationship Manager and Vault Custodian. She diligently distinguished herself and swiftly rose from the grade of Executive Trainee in 1992 to Manager in 2001. Ms. Agbede subsequently served as the Chief Executive Officer of JKG limited in 2003 a business consulting outfit.

Ms. Agbede joined Access Bank in 2003 as an Assistant General Manager and was responsible for managing the Bank’s portfolio of chemical trading companies. She has occupied the role of Head, HR for the Access Bank Group since 2010 wherein she oversees the human capital development of the Group.

Ms. Agbede holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990) and subsequently obtained a Master of Business Administration degree from Cranfield University in 2002.

Ms. Agbede is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management UK and Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria. She has attended several renowned leadership and professional development programs including the High-Performance Leadership Programme organised by the IMD and the Strategic Talent Management Programme organised by the London Business School.