Why Herbert Wigwe Lives in My Heart: A Perspective on Strategic Planning and Execution for Competitiveness and Long-term Sustainability.

I was never close to Aig or Herbert; however, I held them close to my heart. Together, they represent my SI Unit, my ideal model for achieving competitiveness and sustainability through strategic planning and effective execution. To me, Herbert represents perfect execution, while Aig represents strategic thinking. I have consistently provided the Access Way Case Study during my strategic planning engagements.

My time at Access Bank Plc from January 2008 to August 2011 was a life-changing experience, even though I had prior stints in analyzing the business environment, crafting strategies, and implementing Total Quality Management to attain ISO 90001 accreditation and competitiveness. Interestingly, in 2007, I was privileged to read Professor Pat Utomi's case study on Guaranty Trust Bank at the Lagos Business School. The narrative, which emphasized customer attention, reengineering, youthful resolve, and the pursuit of greatness, was inspirational. Fascinatingly, Herbert and Aig contributed to Guaranty Trust Bank's prosperity.

The insights and practical experience in strategic planning and execution that I acquired from these remarkable people have greatly impacted my perspective on strategy execution in Nigeria. As an “Access Warrior," I witnessed how greatness was attained by strategic planning and laser-like execution. For instance, when I joined Access, they had just begun implementing their next five-year strategic plan, having surpassed targets set for the previous strategy (2002–2007) and attained a new level. By 2008, they had shifted from aiming to be among the "top ten in the banking industry" to becoming a "world-class financial services provider" to compete on a global scale, beyond Africa.

When I discuss strategic planning and its application, I frequently cite Herbert Wigwe and Aig Imhoukuede as examples of deliberate, unrivalled success. From 2002 to 2012, they transformed a third-tier Access Bank into a world-class bank and digital financial services provider, placing it among the top 4 banks in Nigeria based on several indicators. They have served as benchmarks for competitiveness and sustainability for me. Regarding their vision, purpose, strategic philosophy, core values, people and culture, and unique competencies, Aig and Herbert showed foresight, firmness, and focus. To find out more, I strongly suggest reading "Leaving the Tarmac: Buying a Bank in Africa.". Since 2013, Herbert, with Aig as his chief responsibility officer, has established Access Bank as a truly respected global bank and the largest bank in Nigeria by customer base. Access Bank aims to be in the top 4 in Africa by 2027. May the spirit of the chief warrior continue to guide them.

As Aig stated, Herbert's passing highlighted to the world what they stood for, what they accomplished as a result of their core values and daring, and the legacy they intended to leave behind. The goals, the convictions, the anxieties, the daring, the elegance, the diligence, the development of champions, the partnerships, and the victories.

Wigwe University

Those who have studied Herbert and internalized his principles will undoubtedly understand the vision and spirit of the new Wigwe University. With his passing, many will have a deeper appreciation for the passion and practicality that Wigwe University represents.

I've told a lot of friends and coworkers that Access Bank is an academy with a goal, vision, determination, grit, and flair. When I first saw the ads for the soon-to-be Wigwe University I knew that it would have the DNA of the Access Academy and a research and development focus, modelled after Harvard University, to create a dynamic community and generation that can strive to live up to their full potential. I can say this because I have seen the products of the Access Academy, and they are champions everywhere they go.

All in all, it is encouraging to know that Herbert Wigwe and his legacy of foresight and execution will live on in my heart as I speak more about the development and application of strategies in Nigeria. I am appreciative of the opportunity to witness your leadership. As his partner in achieving goals, I pray for strength for Aig, knowing that as long as he is alive, Herbert's legacy will be preserved.

Rest on, Chief.