When the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife, and son happened, many of us in Africa were shaken. It wasn’t just the loss of a brilliant mind in banking or the tragedy of a family lost it was a deep, sobering reminder that couples can die together. And if that happens, what becomes of the children left behind?
It hit me hard.
I remembered a childhood family friend whose parents died in a car crash. Back then, I noticed the children never dropped out of school. They didn’t beg for food or clothes. Life… somehow, went on. At the time, I thought it was luck. Now I know better.
It was intentional financial planning.
Sanusi’s Tribute: The Power of Trust
In his heartfelt tribute to Herbert Wigwe, former Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, shared something profound. Two years ago, he placed all his savings into a trust for his children’s education and named Herbert Wigwe as the trustee.
He said:
“Even if I died with nothing, I was sure Herbert would ensure my children got the education they deserved.”
He trusted Herbert with his legacy. He thought he would die first. But life doesn’t always go the way we imagine.
Are You and Your Spouse Ready for the Unthinkable?
After hearing Sanusi’s story, I had a long conversation with my best friend. I told her that both my husband and I already have:
- A written will
- Named each other as beneficiaries
- Appointed a trustee
- Shared clear documentation of our assets
If either of us dies or if we both die our children are covered.
That very week, my friend and her husband began working on their own estate plan.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Plan?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to be rich to write a will or set up a trust. You don’t.
Here’s what estate planning typically costs in Ghana or Nigeria today:
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Will Drafting | ₦20,000 – ₦50,000 (GHS 250–700) |
| Legal Consultation for Estate Planning | ₦10,000 – ₦25,000 (GHS 150–350) |
| Setting up a Trust (Private Lawyer) | ₦100,000+ (GHS 1,400+) |
| Life Insurance Policy (Monthly Premium) | From ₦5,000/month (GHS 70) |
Even with as little as ₦5,000 (GHS 70), you can draft a basic handwritten will to protect your spouse and children. It’s not about wealth — it’s about responsibility.
What You Need to Put in Place
Start with these essential steps:
- A written will (store one copy with your lawyer or trustee)
- Named beneficiaries on life insurance or pension accounts
- A trusted executor or trustee to act in your children’s best interest
- A record of assets, debts, and financial accounts shared with your spouse
- Regular reviews every 3–5 years or after major life changes
Real-Life Tragedies Happen Every Day
Consider recent tragedies like the Air India crash or the increasing number of fatal accidents and health emergencies. Death is not something we can predict, but it is something we can prepare for.
It is irresponsible to build wealth, raise children, and yet leave nothing in place to protect them if you’re gone.
Ladies, This Is Our Role Too
Too often, women are left out of financial planning. Many don’t know:
- What assets their spouses own
- Who the life insurance beneficiaries are
- What to do if their spouse dies unexpectedly
- Where key documents and accounts are located
Do not leave yourself or your children in the dark.
Ask questions:
- Who is the executor of our will?
- What insurance policies do we have?
- What happens to our children if both of us die tomorrow?
These are not cursed thoughts. They are necessary conversations.
The Gift of Peace
Since my husband and I created our wills and appointed a trustee, we’ve experienced something priceless: peace of mind.
We know our children:
- Won’t be pulled out of school
- Won’t be abandoned or struggle unnecessarily
- Will be guided and protected by someone we trust
That is our true legacy.
Final Word: Your Legacy Is in Your Hands
Whether you’re saving to migrate, buying land, starting a business, or preparing for retirement, please also prepare for death. It is part of life.
Let your children remember you not only for your love, but for your foresight.
They deserve that.
