The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has paid glowing tribute to late business tycoon Herbert Wigwe, describing him as a man whose presence was larger than life. 

“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 said.

Sanwo-Olu was among the litany of distinguished guests who gathered at the Eko Hotel in Lagos for the one-year remembrance of the late banking sage.

Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, and son Chizi died in an air crash exactly one year ago in the United States.

“The pain of their passing lingers like an open wound that time has not been able to heal,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Recalling Wigwe’s contribution to the development of the country and Lagos State, the governor said he still “struggles to speak of Herbert in the past”.

“He truly believed in Nigeria, he believed in Africa, ” Sanwo-Olu told the solemn gathering on Sunday evening.

“He, especially believed in our work here in Lagos State. Herbert travelled the world with us, helping my government to mobilise partners and funding,” the Lagos State governor said.

“Lagos State has felt his absence very strongly in the last one year and people in this room know truly what I am talking about. There are projects that would no doubt have moved faster today. Of course, Herbert being around would have pushed them forward.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu recounted Wigwe’s contributions to Lagos State ranging from his support during the COVID-19 pandemic, banking sector, arts and culture, and a host of other efforts.

“H.O.W made my work as a governor a little easier for me,” a sober Sanwo-Olu told the audience.

“He was always looking for ways to be impactful. Nothing gave him as much joy and satisfaction than executing projects,” he said, but believes Wigwe’s “greatest legacy lives in his children – Tochi, David, Hanna, and Okachi”.