By Isaac Samuel
Eminent Nigerian banker and philanthropist, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, has said that his main purpose in life is to build people and institutions. In a solemn message he released Thursday to mark his 60th birthday,
Aig-Imoukhuede noted that the idea of building had remained a defining theme of his life.
“As I look back over the years, one idea seems to connect so much of the journey: I have been called to build,” he said.
According to him, his purpose has been to build institutions, people and opportunities and contribute to building a stronger Africa.
He said he had also sought to build a life anchored on “faith, family, service and values that endure beyond any one individual.”
Although he has been involved in setting up several businesses and a foundation over the years, Aig-Imoukhuede is widely celebrated for his role in the spectacular take over of Access Bank in 2002, then a very small bank, and growing it, with his friend, Herbert Wigwe, into one of the biggest Nigerian lenders.
Herbert’s tragic death in an helicopter accident in the US in February 2024 and the feud that later erupted between him and Herbert’s siblings remain two of Aig-Imoukhuede’s most traumatic experiences. His Diamond jubilee should certainly provide him an opportunity to reflect on the many twists and turns that punctuate life.
A high-octane dinner party with A listers as guests is holding Thursday evening in Lagos. Political and business leaders from across the world will attend.
Aig-Imoukhuede says his family, friends, colleagues, partners and mentors have been key partners in his journey, expressing particular gratitude to his mother, Pastor Emily, and his “special partner, Herbert.”
“Whatever has been accomplished has never been mine alone. I have been blessed with extraordinary people—Ofovwe, our children, family, friends, colleagues, partners and mentors—who have challenged me, supported me and shared in the work,” he said.
Reflecting on his 50th birthday, when he described himself as “God’s Work in Progress,” the banker said the description remained relevant a decade later.
“At 50, I described myself as ‘God’s Work in Progress.’ Ten years later, that remains true. The building continues,” he added.
He prayed for the grace, wisdom and strength to continue building more intentionally and generously in the new decade, with a commitment to leaving behind stronger institutions, opportunities and lives.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Aig-Imoukhuede on his 60th birthday, describing him as one of a generation of Nigerians who “took bold bets on our country” and demonstrated that Nigerian institutions could compete at the highest levels.
In a special tribute issued by the State House on Thursday, Tinubu recalled Aig-Imoukhuede’s tenure as Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, which began in 2002, saying he led the bank through a period of significant growth.
The President noted that Aig-Imoukhuede is now Chairman of Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group.
Tinubu also highlighted his contributions to Nigeria’s financial markets, noting that he served as President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and founding Chairman of FMDQ Securities Exchange. He currently serves as Co-Chairman of EnterpriseNGR.
According to the President, Aig-Imoukhuede has also accepted public responsibilities, including chairing the Presidential Committee on the Verification and Reconciliation of Fuel Subsidy Payments in 2012.
Tinubu particularly commended the banker and his wife, Ofovwe, for their work through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation.
He said the foundation had invested in improving public service, preparing public servants for greater responsibility and supporting better healthcare.
“I am pleased that after considerable success in private enterprise, Aigboje continues to devote his experience and resources to the progress of our country,” Tinubu said.
The President described 60 as an important milestone for Aig-Imoukhuede and an opportunity to reflect on a career that had “touched many institutions and opened doors for many people.”
He joined Ofovwe, their children, family, friends and associates in celebrating the banker, wishing him good health, happiness and many more years of service to Nigeria and humanity.
“Happy 60th birthday, Aigboje,” Tinubu said.
