Biography & Career Of Chizi Wigwe

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Biography & Career Of Chizi Wigwe

Chizi Herbert Wigwe (born January 30, 1995) was an entrepreneur and leading Nigerian investment expert.

By birth, he was an American Investment Professional at African Finance Corporation Capital Partners (ACP). Chizi Wigwe was a Senior Analyst at AFC before his untimely demise on February 9, 2024. He was the first son of the Late Herbert Wigwe.

Early Life

Chizi Wigwe was on January 30, 1995, at a public hospital in the bustling city of New York, in the state of New York. Born on American soil, he also held Nigerian citizenship, a testament to his multicultural background and heritage.

Hailing from the esteemed Wigwe family of Nigeria, Chizi was welcomed into the loving embrace of Herbert Wigwe and Chizoba Wigwe. As the eldest child in the household, he shared his upbringing with three younger siblings: Tochi Wigwe, David Wigwe, and Hannah Wigwe. Shortly after his birth, Chizi‘s family relocated to Nigeria, where he spent his early years.

Proudly representing the Southern region of Nigeria, Chizi Wigwe‘s roots trace back to Isiokpo, nestled within Rivers State. Growing up, he split his time between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, embarking on a unique educational journey. Unlike many of his peers, Chizi began schooling abroad at the esteemed Port Regis School in Shaftesbury, England, at the tender age of eight.

As the sole African student at Port Regis, Chizi embraced the school’s preparatory curriculum, laying the foundation for his academic pursuits. Following his time there, he continued his education at The King’s School in Canterbury, England, where he completed his secondary studies

Seeking new horizons, Chizi Wigwe ventured to the United States to pursue higher education. He first completed a diploma at a preparatory academy before advancing to undergraduate studies at a prestigious American university, setting his sights on a bright future filled with promise and potential.

Education

Chizi Wigwe began his elementary education at Greenwood House School, Lagos City, and then travelled abroad to further his studies. He resumed his education at Port Regis School, Shaftesbury, England.

He completed his secondary education at The King’s School, Canterbury, scoring excellent grades in his O’Levels exams. After that, he obtained a high school diploma at The Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut.

He bagged a Bachelor’s Degree in Technology and International Affairs from Georgetown University. He had specifically studied at the Edward A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Washington D.C. He had bagged the Bachelor of Science degree in 2018.

Career

During his undergraduate years, Chizi Wigwe discovered a passion for entrepreneurship that sparked his journey into business. Despite hailing from a prosperous background, he launched a small clothing venture, selling T-shirts to fellow students to generate income. Over the years, he skillfully managed this enterprise while pursuing his studies, demonstrating his knack for business management and innovation.

Additionally, Chizi ventured into various other entrepreneurial endeavours, collaborating with close friends to establish new ventures and explore diverse business opportunities.

Upon completing his university education, Chizi returned to Nigeria, his homeland. Displaying his commitment to national service, he embarked on the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, affirming his dedication to his country. With aspirations to follow in his father’s footsteps within the Nigerian financial sector, Chizi joined the esteemed Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) in April 2019, swiftly earning recognition as a standout talent.

His exceptional performance at AFC caught the attention of senior management, leading to his pivotal role in establishing the Capital Partners department. Collaborating closely with Ayaan Zeinab Adam, a respected figure within AFC, Chizi co-founded Africa Finance Corporation Capital Partners (ACP). Despite Ayaan‘s senior position, the dynamic duo worked tirelessly to shape ACP’s strategy and drive its success, notably securing 350 million naira to launch the first Pan African Fund dedicated to climate initiatives.

Outside of his professional endeavours, Chizi Wigwe actively contributed to the arts and cultural sector as an Advisory Board Member at 1952 Africa, an organization dedicated to fostering the growth of African art, culture, and history. He also lent his expertise to Craneburg Construction as a Consultant from 2018 to 2019. Committed to continuous learning and professional development, Chizi embarked on the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, completing level one by February 2024 and striving to obtain the full charter.

Driven by his passion for financial innovation, Chizi Wigwe delved into cryptocurrency trading, swiftly becoming proficient in the field and expanding his investment portfolio. His expertise in finance and keen business acumen positioned him as a Senior Analyst at the Africa Finance Corporation until his untimely passing on February 9, 2024. He left behind a legacy of excellence and dedication in the financial world.

Personal Life

Chizi Wigwe was more than just a name; he was the product of a family legacy filled with success and ambition. Born into a family where achievement was the norm, Chizi was the eldest son of Herbert Wigwe, a key figure in Access Bank Plc, and Chizoba Wigwe, a powerhouse in law and entrepreneurship. Herbert‘s leadership at Access Bank and Chizoba‘s role as CEO of Craneburg Construction set a high bar for success that Chizi aspired to reach.

Driven to excel, Chizi dreamed of pursuing his postgraduate studies at Harvard University, aiming to earn an MBA and further his career. His plans for Harvard were already in motion before tragedy struck. But beyond his ambitions, Chizi knew how to enjoy life. In Lagos, he was known as the life of the party, bringing joy and energy wherever he went.

Chizi Wigwe was never married and had no child or girlfriend known to the media.

Then came that fateful day in February 2024 when a helicopter crash took Chizi Wigwe, his parents, and others on board. They were on their way to the Super Bowl, a testament to Chizi‘s zest for life and love of sports. His family and friends felt his loss deeply, and they honoured his memory with a heartfelt funeral ceremony.

In his absence, Chizi Wigwe leaves behind siblings, grandparents, and a wide circle of family who will always remember his warmth and kindness. Despite his achievements, he remained grounded, finding joy in spending time with loved ones and making memories that will endure long after he’s gone.