Wigwe’s Death: Aig-Imoukhuede Emerges As New Access Holdings Chairman
Access Holdings Plc (‘the Holdco’) has appointed Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, the former group managing director/CEO of Access Bank Plc, as its non-executive chairman.
The company secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, announced that Aig-Imoukhuede will take over from Abubakar Jimoh. Jimoh will continue to serve on the Board as an independent non-executive director.
Aig-Imoukhuede, known for his visionary leadership and impressive track record, is expected to bring a wealth of expertise and guidance to lead the group toward a new era of success.
The statement reads: “In response to the untimely passing of the immediate past group chief executive officer of Access Holdings, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, and following extensive consultations with key
stakeholders, the Holdco Board unanimously decided to invite Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede to the helm of governance.
“With an illustrious career spanning several decades in the banking and finance sector, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede has proven to be an exceptional and influential leader, having admirably laid a solid foundation for
Access Bank’s success as group chief executive officer between 2002 and 2013 was ably supported by his partner and deputy, the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, who later succeeded him.” “Under Aig-imoukhuede’s
leadership, Access Bank experienced remarkable growth and established itself as a trusted financial institution within the community.”
Ekwochi observed that the bank underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a small participant to become one of the top five banks in Nigeria.
Additionally, he said the bank expanded its operations to encompass nine other African nations as well as the United Kingdom.
“Under his stewardship, Access Bank grew its customer base from 10,000 to over six million with more than 5,000 employees and an asset base of USD $12 billion, achieving numerous milestones and
becoming a globally recognized name. His strategic vision, innovative thinking, and deep market insight were instrumental to shaping the Bank’s success,” the statement added.
After retiring as the Bank’s CEO in December 2013, Aig-Imoukhuede went on to co-found the Tengen Family Office Limited.
This entity is responsible for managing a substantial portfolio of investments and businesses across various sectors, including banking, finance, insurance, technology, real estate, and energy.
Through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, he showed dedication to nurturing Nigeria’s future government leaders, enhancing public sector efficiency, and enhancing the availability of quality primary healthcare
services.
Ekwoci’s statement highlights the Board’s commitment to the bank’s core values and determination to build upon the strong foundation established by Aig-Imoukhuede and Dr. Wigwe.
With his extensive experience, industry knowledge, and exceptional leadership skills, Access Holdings aims to leverage his expertise to further consolidate the growth and achievements under Dr. Wigwe’s
leadership.
As the group’s non-executive chairman, Aig-Imoukhuede will collaborate with the Board of Directors to oversee strategy and provide guidance to the executive management team.
His return not only showcases his unwavering dedication to Access Group but also reflects the Board’s confidence in his ability to lead the Group to new heights. Speaking about his return, Abubakar Jimoh, past
chairman of Access Holdings, expressed his excitement, stating: “Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s appointment to the Board and subsequent election as chairman is a landmark development for Access Holdings. All our
board members are excited about our future.’’
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, said: “I am thrilled to be back in active service to the Access Group ecosystem. I am confident that working with our directors, our exceptional team of
executives, and our best-in-class banking and finance professionals, we will deliver outstanding value to our esteemed stakeholders. I am determined that our shared vision which Dr. Wigwe gave everything
for, will be realized.”
The report noted that the entire Access Group community, comprising of staff, clients, and investors, is eagerly awaiting the return of Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede and is excited about the promising future that lies ahead
under his guidance. With his knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication, the Access Group is ready to begin a new era of influence and lasting prosperity.
