Tochi Wigwe, daughter of Herbert Wigwe, says her father has left enormous shoes to fill following his death.

In a tribute to the late businessman on Tochi eulogised Wigwe as a committed and doting father, who was an “unwavering anchor for family and friends.

Also, former,Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has described the death of late Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe as great loss to Africa and the world.

Speaking yesterday at a combined service of songs held for the Wigwe’s at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Resurrection Parish, Lekki, Lagos, Prof, Osinbajo in his remark said Wigwe is a man whose influence was felt beyond the financial services sector but a true friend who not only ‘Talk the talk but Walk the Talk’

In his words: “This is not just a national tragedy but across Africa and many parts of the world. Many are grieving the loss of a true friend, a hope bringer and a man for whom the future always seems too imminent.

“Across this land and elsewhere, many have been weeping with you. This tragedy has trouble so many, young and old; Herbert friends and associates, Doris’ circle of friends and associates, Chizie’s friends, a deep dark cloud hang over our heart.

Narrating his last moment with the late Wigwe, Osinbajo said: “However, we have heard so much about Herbert exemplary life and times, I have known him for so many years. While I was in office for the entire eight years that I was in office, Herbert called me practically every other month just to say how you are doing never ask for favour”

“But two months before I left office he called me and said he needed to see me and I thought he must have some mission and he came with a note book and I was very surprised because Herbert never ever came with a note book and said he wants to know what my plans are for the future after I left office. I laughed over it but he insisted and he took note diligently of everything that I said I wanted to do. Thereafter he visited me at least three or four times before I left office”

Continuing, “the Thursday before the week he died, he called me on Tuesday that he is coming to see me on Thursday and he did. He spent about two hours reviewing practically about everything, so many things. The university, philanthropist he was involved in and various other things

.

“I don’t think any event in recent times for me in particular had so germane and made it clear how important friends are and how important our relationship are. Herbert was someone who walk the talk of brotherhood and friendship, he doesn’t just talk but he walk the talk. He was there for his friends, associates and we see how deeply he cares for his family.”

Ajoritsedere Awosika

Also Access Bank ex-Chair, Ajoritsedere Awosika, described the late Wigwe as an unforgettable personality whose life touched millions of lives; “The works of Herbert speaks for him, I salute God for giving us such rare gift in this generation. His love touched lives. He renders service of excellence, compassion and serve humanity”, she said.

You’ve left me with enormous shoes to fill —Wigwe’s daugheter

Tochi Wigwe, daughter of Herbert Wigwe, says her father has left enormous shoes to fill following his death.

In a tribute to the late businessman on Wednesday, Tochi eulogised Wigwe as a committed and doting father, who was an “unwavering anchor for family and friends”.

“In this moment, for the first time, your words resonate deeply within me. No longer do I want to tilt my head and squint my eyes in confusion. You were simply extraordinary,”

“You urged me to reach new heights I never even imagined. Whenever doubt clouded my mind, you would chuckle knowingly and say, ‘You really just don’t know whose child you are, you’ll soon find out.’ And once again, you were right: I’ve come to find out.

“I could never fathom how you managed to do it all; it seemed inconceivable. Turning everything you touched to gold while remaining an unwavering anchor for your family and friends” she said.

Continuing, Tochi recalled how his father always encouraged and pushed her and her friends to elevate their ambitions.

“With people to guide and protect her. Distance meant absolutely nothing to you. You traveled continents on a whim just to see me for a couple of minutes before heading back to your responsibilities. My mother Hannah and I were the most beautiful and my nickname was also ‘pretty.’

“Who will prompt me to flash a peace sign in every photo; who will engage in marathon debates with my friends and myself on flights to Cape Town; who will inquire ‘what are they saying about me online today?’ And who will ask me about my thoughts on Wigwe University.

“You were Paradox, a tower of strength with a heart as soft as silk. You can never raise your voice at me without calling me an hour later to apologise.

“Your influence extended far beyond our family circle. You effortlessly convinced my friends that their futures lay in Nigeria, urging them to elevate their aspirations.

“You’ve left me with enormous shoes to fill but you’ve also gifted me with an unwavering support system. You nurtured your relationships with such care that you’ve bestowed upon me farthest to guide and protect me for that I’m eternally grateful.

“I love you deeply and I ache for the day we will be reunited to resume our cherished gossip sessions to continue our pep talks about life and everything in between with all my love, Mama T, aka Your Pretty.”