By Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late business magnate Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a visionary leader whose impact remains deeply felt.
Speaking at a one-year remembrance event held at the Eko Hotel in Lagos on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu said Wigwe’s passing left an irreplaceable void.
“A year ago, the world as we knew it changed forever. In an instant, we lost a man whose presence was larger than life,” the governor remarked.
Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, and their son Chizi died in an air crash in the United States exactly a year ago. Reflecting on the loss, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that “the pain of their passing lingers like an open wound that time has not been able to heal.”
A Strong Believer in Nigeria and Lagos
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Wigwe’s unwavering belief in Nigeria’s and Africa’s potential, as well as his significant contributions to Lagos State.
“He truly believed in Nigeria, he believed in Africa,” the governor stated. “He especially believed in our work here in Lagos State. Herbert traveled the world with us, helping my government to mobilize partners and funding.”
The governor noted that Wigwe’s absence has been profoundly felt in the past year. “There are projects that would no doubt have moved faster today. Of course, Herbert being around would have pushed them forward,” he said.
A Legacy of Impact
Sanwo-Olu lauded Wigwe’s contributions across various sectors, including his support during the COVID-19 pandemic, the banking industry, and arts and culture.
“H.O.W made my work as a governor a little easier for me,” he said, referring to Wigwe by his initials. “He was always looking for ways to be impactful. Nothing gave him as much joy and satisfaction as executing projects.”
The governor concluded that Wigwe’s “greatest legacy lives in his children – Tochi, David, Hanna, and Okachi,” ensuring that his influence and vision will endure for generations to come.
