It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, the first patron to believe in the vision of ART X Lagos, and our great supporter over the years, through the institutions he led - Access Bank and Access Holdings. His tragic passing has left us all stunned and heartbroken.
Dr. Wigwe was not merely a patron; he was a visionary who championed the transformative power of culture and the arts to change the African narrative, backing that vision with his energy and leadership. His unwavering support of ART X Lagos, amongst other arts and culture institutions, deeply enriched the creative landscape within Nigeria and across Africa. His passion for the creative industry was infectious, and his commitment to excellence was unmatched.
Whether through his philanthropic endeavors such as the newly launched Wigwe University, his leadership within Access Holdings and Access Bank, or his countless contributions to Nigeria and Africa, he left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
We pray for the souls of the departed – Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his wife Mrs Chizoba Wigwe, his son Chizi Wigwe, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo and the crew, who lost their lives in the fatal crash on February 9th 2024.
As we come to terms with this profound loss and immeasurable grief, we pray that the Almighty comforts those they left behind. We extend our deepest condolences to the Wigwe Family, to the Aig-Imoukhuede Family, to the Access Bank and Access Holdings families, as well as the HOW Foundation and Wigwe University.
While we mourn the passing of our dear and valued patron, we also celebrate Dr. Wigwe’s remarkable life and legacy. His spirit will continue to inspire us, and his memory will forever be cherished within our hearts. We are committed to honouring his memory by carrying forward his vision, his values, and his passion for the arts, ensuring that his legacy endures, and that his impact lives on for generations to come.
May the souls of the dearly departed rest in peace.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig & Team ART X