WELCOME
Dear LBSAA family,
Welcome to the June 2026 edition of the LBS Alumni Newsletter. We are happy that you have kept faith with this monthly communication from the Alumni Office; interacting and giving us your feedback. Thank you!
As you may have noticed, we have made a few changes to the Newsletter; in terms of the presentation, content and flow. This is with the view of making it more fun and enriching for our readers. We hope you find more value in the new look. Please feel free to let us know how if there is something we could have done better.
In this edition, as always, we have shared important information and updates from around the alumni ecosystem that you will surely catch your interest. We have exciting updates in the ‘News Around LBS/PAU’ section. We also dropped some learning nuggets in the newly added section: Mind Over Matter. You can also get a good dose of inspiration and motivation to help drive your goals this month from the ‘Motivationals” column. There is also the ‘Birthdays’ page where we have given a shout out to our June celebrants.
Editorial Team
Henry Andoh
Joe Umechukwu
Joshua Mbak
Melody Uponi
To complete the communication loop, there is now a ‘Feedback’ section where we have simplified the process of dropping a quick comment or suggestion for you. Just click on the link. On that page too, you can find ‘Testimonials’ from previous editions of the newsletter.
Finally, here is a thought-provoking question for you. Have you taken time periodically to reflect on how the act of leadership applies to your position or role; what your predominant leadership style could be, and the kind of impact your leadership may have been having on the people in your team? You can find these insights on the ‘Mind Over Matter’ section.
Happy Reading!
As we turn the page to the new month of July, we reflect on the events of June that will surely have a bearing on the way we live our lives and carry out our work and business, going forward
June was full of epoch-making events in both the continental and global stages that will be talked about for years to come. It is both our hope and expectation that these events of will inspire the resilient African spirit and spur a new generation of Africans to dream the impossible and achieve new heights in business, sports, technology, agriculture, politics and governance.
In this month, the World Cup made an auspicious return after the traditional four-year cycle. This time it is being hosted in North Ameria with the United States, Mexico and Canada as co-hosts.
The global event seemingly began on a negative note for Africa when on 6 June, at the Miami International Airport, the Ethiopian Referee Omar Artan, regarded as the current best referee from African Football, was denied entry into the United States where FIFA has assigned him to officiate some key matches. There were also reports of players from different African countries being denied entry into Canada, another one of the host countries.
It started to dampen the morale for the continent even before the football fiesta started in earnest. The heroics of some of the African representatives in the tournament, thankfully, soon brought joy and pride back to our faces Outstanding among them was Cape Verde, who was making their first appearance at the World cup but defied all permutations with their performances and accomplishments in the group stage, and eventual qualification for the round of 32.
By Joe Umechukwu
NEWS AROUND LBS/PAU
THE FRENCH AMBASSADOR’S VISIT TO LAGOS BUSINESS SCHOOL
LBS was in the global spotlight once again as the epicentre for private sector development conversations in Nigeria with the visit of the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, His Excellency Marc Fonbaustier, on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, for the France-Nigeria Business & Human Capital Development Forum.
The event brought together key stakeholders in relevant sectors to discuss partnerships in business, education, R&D and economic growth. The conversations explored how stronger collaboration in business, innovation, education and human capital development can help unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth and shared prosperity between France and Nigeria.
In one of his key statements, the Ambassador said that France is committed to working with Nigerian universities, startups, researchers and businesses to develop innovation that creates opportunities for all and serves the economy
In his words: “Innovation flourishes wherever talent is in abundance. Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and possesses great entrepreneurial talent and creativity”. He further affirmed that France is committed to walking alongside Nigeria in developing her huge potentials, not as a spectator or as a competitor, but as a reliable long-term partner
He further said that looking ahead in the next 10 years trust, shared vision and human capital development are the three main convictions that should be the defining pillars of the modern France-Nigeria partnership.
In her response, the Dean of Lagos Business School, Prof Olayinka David-West described the forum as an opportunity to explore how best Nigeria and France can work together to unlock new opportunities in key sectors of the economy for economic growth, innovation, talent development and sustainable impact.
Going further she stated that, “in a world characterised by rapid change in technology, economic uncertainty, shifting workforce dynamics and increasing global interconnectedness, partnership has become more important than ever”. ‘As we navigate opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, countries and institutions
Going further she stated that, “in a world characterised by rapid change in technology, economic uncertainty, shifting workforce dynamics and increasing global interconnectedness, partnership has become more important than ever”. ‘As we navigate opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, countries and institutions.
LBS Breakfast Club:
Tosin Eniolorunda, Moniepoint CEO, sees Africa’s biggest business opportunities in the informal sector
Tosin Eniolorunda, co-founder, Moniepoint and Group CEO has said that African businesses and entrepreneurs are missing out on a huge growth opportunity by continuously designing products and services meant to serve customers in the formal sector of the economy while giving less attention for the informal sector that actually drives the majority of economic activity across the continent
He made the remarks at the June 2026 edition of the Lagos Business School Breakfast Club, speaking on the theme “Building for the Bottom of the Pyramid”. According to him:
” The companies that will create the most value over the next decade will not necessarily be the ones building for the most visible customers They will rather be those willing to design for markets that have historically been overlooked In many cases, what appears to be a constraint is simply an invitation to build differently,”
He questioned the common assumption that informal markets are hard to serve due to lack of data and structure, insisting that the real problem is that existing solutions were never built with those customers in mind
Key Insights:
“Most businesses are designed around the visible economy. They serve customers with formal identities, formal records, formal addresses Yet a significant share of economic activity happens outside those structures,”
Traders, artisans, transport operators and small business owners generate rich economic signals
every day. However, big originsations are the ones that have lacked the tools and willingness to capture and interpret those signals.
“The problem is not the absence of economic activity. It is our inability to capture, interpret, and serve it effectively."
“The bottom of the pyramid is often discussed as a development challenge. Increasingly, I believe it should be viewed as a business opportunity. The scale is significant, the need is real,” he said
“The organisations that earn trust at the informal level will be well positioned to shape the future of African commerce”.
Mr Eniolorunda further noted that when businesses spend enough time studying informal operators, they discover that these businesses generate rich signals every day, challenging the notion that the informal economy is too opaque or undocumented to be served profitably.
Source: Nairametrics
Election of a New Exco for the LBSAA
Elections were held to elect new executive committee (EXCO) members to pilot the affairs of the Lagos Business School Alumni Association (LBSAA), on Saturday, 27th June 2026, at the Oriental Hotels, Lagos The tenure of the outgoing EXCOs ended in June 2026 after the constitutional allowed two years. By the current charter of the LBSAA, the EXCO is made up of three officers; the President, Vice President and the Secretary. However, the elections were conducted for the positions of the Vice President and Secretary only The reason being that, again by the LBSAA charter, the outgoing vice president automatically assumes the position of the president while the newly elected vice president will now be regarded as the next president-in-waiting.
The elections were keenly contested by two sets of candidates who boasts of very impressive profiles. Listening to their opening speeches where they marshalled out their agenda for the association, there was virtually nothing to choose between each pair. You could rightly advocate that both be given the opportunity to serve, if it were constitutionally allowed The contest for the position of the Secretary was between Ms. Chinelo Cynthia Muoneke (TSA2) and Barr. Osita Enwe (AgMP18). After the votes were counted, Ms. Chinelo emerged winner The next election for the Vice-President produced Mr Wole Abu (AMP19) as the new Vice President after a very close contest with Dr. Odiri Ogini (DBA1).
The electoral process took place in a hybrid format. This was to ensure that votes counted for every member of the Governing Council (GC) – both onsite and online - who have been given the mandate and honour to vote during the EXCO elections. Voting was officiated by Henry Andoh, the LBS Alumni Director and the returning officer for the elections. It was indeed a seamless exercise that was held in the spirit of friendship, transparency and community, reflecting the values of Lagos Business School.
The composition of the new EXCO is as follows:
Mr Valentine Okelu (AMP22) – President
Mr Wole Abu (AMP19) – Vice President
Ms Chinelo Cynthia Muoneke (TSA2) –Secretary
Dr. Owen D. Omogiafor - (AMP32) –Immediate Past President (IPP)
They are now to step into the positions previously held in the committee by:
Dr. Owen D. Omogiafo – the outgoing president
Mr. Valentine Okelu – the incoming president.
Mr. Misan Eribo – the outgoing secretary Dr. Agada Apochi – the outgoing immediate past president (IPP).
To end the very successful and historic evening there was yet one more symbolic act. In a move that signalled the transition of leadership, a brief handover ceremony took place, witnessed by the GC members and the LBS Alumni team. The outgoing president, Dr. Owen Omogiafo, handed over the instrumentality of office to the incoming president, Mr Valentine Okelu, to effectively end one era of LBSAA leadership as another now begins.
OMP Participants Expand Horizons Through Nairobi Immersion
A cross-border learning experience fostering collaboration, innovation, and business growth across Africa.
This week, participants of the Lagos Business School Owner-Manager Programme (OMP) are in Nairobi, Kenya, for an immersive learning experience hosted in collaboration with Strathmore Business School. Designed for entrepreneurs and business leaders committed to continuous growth, the programme combines classroom learning with meaningful peer engagement and cross-border networking.
Beyond the lectures, participants are gaining fresh perspectives, challenging assumptions, exploring new business opportunities, and building relationships with fellow leaders from across the continent. The experience reinforces the importance of collaboration in addressing Africa’s business challenges and unlocking its vast potential.
At Lagos Business School, we remain committed to developing responsible leaders who create lasting impact in business and society
The next OMP cohort began on 22 June 2026. Visit the link in bio for more details.
A highly selective initiative designed to develop, mentor, and connect outstanding young graduates for future opportunities.
The Young Talents Programme (YTP) is Lagos Business School’s flagship talent development initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing exceptional young graduates across Nigeria. Through an intensive learning experience, participants are equipped with the leadership, problem-solving, and professional skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive world.
Built on the pillars of mentorship, talent development, and talent sourcing, YTP challenges participants to collaborate, tackle real-world problems, and present innovative solutions while benefiting from faculty-led and professional mentorship that extends beyond the programme
Participation is highly competitive, with only about 50 outstanding candidates selected annually from across the country.
Eligibility: First Class or Second Class Upper graduates under 30 years old who are currently undergoing or have completed NYSC. Programme Dates: July 23–25, 2026.
PAUPASTEVENTS
Diaries
The LBSAA South East/South South Chapter came together for their third hangout of the year, strengthening connections, sharing experiences, and celebrating the friendships that continue to unite our alumni community. Here's to deeper engagement and even stronger bonds.
LBSAA South-West Hangout: Conversations, Connections, Community
The LBSAA South-West Chapter recently hosted a fun and engaging hangout in Ibadan, bringing together six alumni for an evening of meaningful conversations, laughter, and reconnection.
The informal gathering provided a chance to catch up, share experiences, strengthen relationships, and enjoy quality time together. It was a refreshing reminder that the LBS alumni network continues to thrive through genuine friendships and shared experiences beyond the boardroom.
Visits
As part of the LBS Alumni Association's commitment to lifelong engagement and support, the Alumni Relations team paid a courtesy visit to Precious Victor Njoku (MMBA 4), Marketing Manager at Amen City Limited
During the engaging conversation, Precious shared how her MBA experience at Lagos Business School has equipped her with practical insights that have strengthened her
marketing strategy, deepened her understanding of the real estate ecosystem, and enhanced her effectiveness in leading teams.
The visit also introduced her to the broader opportunities within the LBS alumni network and how she can leverage it for continued personal and professional growth. Precious also shared updates on her classmates, highlighting areas where some needed additional support These insights will help shape future alumni engagement efforts, reinforcing LBS's commitment to lifelong learning, meaningful connections, and supporting alumni long after graduation.
The LBS Alumni Relations team recently visited Emeka Egbochuku (AgMP 19) at his poultry farm, where he shared the remarkable journey of building and expanding his agribusiness. During the visit, he reflected on how the practical insights gained at Lagos Business School have influenced his approach to managing and growing the business, while highlighting the invaluable role fellow alumni and business partners played in helping him navigate key business challenges
Looking ahead, his focus is on sustainable agriculture transforming poultry waste into organic manure and adopting environmentally responsible farming practices. His story is a testament to how continuous learning, collaboration, and the strength of the LBS alumni network can inspire innovation and create lasting business impact
From left to right: Members of the LBS Alumni Relations team, business partners of the alumnus, and [Alumnus' Name] (AGMT 18) at the centre during the visit to his farm.
Spotlight/ Milestone
SPOTLIGHT: Celebrating Distinguished Leadership and Industry Excellence
The Lagos Business School Alumni Association (LBSAA) proudly celebrates Dr. Agada Apochi (AMP 22), whose exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to the alumni community have left a lasting legacy.
Dr. Apochi has served the Association with distinction in several leadership capacities, including:
Vice President (2020–2022)
President (2022–2024)
Immediate Past President (2024–2026)
During his tenure, he championed initiatives that strengthened alumni engagement, fostered collaboration across classes and chapters, and reinforced the Association's commitment to lifelong learning, leadership, and service His visionary leadership helped advance the Association's mission while inspiring a culture of excellence and impact across the LBS alumni community.
Beyond his outstanding contributions to the Association, Dr Apochi continues to make significant strides in Nigeria's financial technology sector. Most recently, he was honoured with the prestigious Payment Industry Legend Award by the Committee of E-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH) in recognition of his exceptional leadership and transformative contributions to the payments industry
Dr. Agada Apochi (AMP 22)
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unified Payments,
As Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unified Payments, Dr Agada Apochi has played a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria's digital payments landscape. Under his leadership, the company pioneered several industryfirst innovations, including EMV Chip & PIN card technology, phone numberbased payments, and platforms such as Payattitude, Payarena, and Hope PSBank, significantly advancing digital payments and financial inclusion in Nigeria.
With over three decades of experience, Dr. Apochi is widely recognised as a visionary leader and pioneer in Nigeria's fintech industry.
The Lagos Business School Alumni Association congratulates Dr. Agada Apochi (AMP 22) on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates his continued impact in advancing innovation and leadership.
Milestone: Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank PLC
Appoints Mr Luqman
Bakare as New MD/CEO
Mr. Luqman Bakare(AMP 34) Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Infinity Trust Merchant Bank
Regional Executive (Lagos) at the bank.
Source: Business Day, OpenPR
Mr. Bakare is an alumnus of the University of Ibadan where he obtained both Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) and Master of Science (M.Sc.) degrees in Economics, with areas of specialization in Monetary Economics, Energy Economics, and Petroleum Studies. In addition, he has participated in numerous executive management, leadership, banking, and financial services development programmes both within Nigeria and internationally, including the Lagos Business School, where he attended the Advanced Management Programme (AMP 34).
Mind Over Matter
Leadership remains one of the most significant determinants of success in organizations, businesses, communities, and even nations Whether in corporate enterprises, government institutions, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or entrepreneurial ventures, effective leadership shapes performance, culture, accountability, and long-term sustainability.
In today's increasingly complex and competitive environment, leadership is no longer viewed simply as a position of authority. Rather, it is recognized as the ability to influence, motivate, and enable others to achieve shared goals Modern organizations are discovering that sustainable success depends less on titles and hierarchy and more on the quality of leadership demonstrated at every level.
Scholars on leadership development describe leadership as a set of behaviours and mindsets that align people around a common vision, encourage collaboration, and enable adaptation to changing circumstances. According to McKinsey & Company (2024), effective leaders inspire trust, provide direction, and create the conditions that allow individuals and teams to perform at their highest potential. Similarly, Yukl (1989) defines leadership as the process of influencing individuals or groups toward the achievement of organizational objectives.
While management focuses primarily on planning, organizing, and controlling resources, leadership emphasizes vision, inspiration, and the ability to drive meaningful change Although leadership and management often overlap, leadership is ultimately concerned with bringing out the best in people and guiding them toward a desired future.
Conversely, leadership is not restricted to individuals with formal authority. Employees at all levels can demonstrate leadership through initiative, collaboration, problem-solving, accountability, and positive influence. Leadership, therefore, is increasingly viewed as a skill and behaviour rather than merely a title or position.
Understanding Leadership
Leadership is one of the most discussed concepts in business, politics, education, and society Yet, it is often misunderstood. Many people associate leadership exclusively with CEOs, directors, managers, presidents, or elected officials. However, true leadership extends far beyond organizational charts and formal positions.
At its core, leadership is the ability to influence others toward the achievement of a common purpose. This influence can come from anyone, regardless of their rank or designation. A team member who inspires colleagues, initiates solutions, and drives positive outcomes is exercising leadership just as much as someone occupying a higher office (To be continued)
Shoutout
B I R T H D A Y
Birthday Shout-Outs
We celebrate all our alumni who had their birthdays in this month of June. We are sending them our best wishes. Praying that this new year be full of happy milestones and bring you closer to the accomplishment of your goals and aspirations....
Your Birthday Shout-Outs
Want to celebrate a classmate or fellow alumnus/alumna on their special day? Send us your birthday shout-out, and we'll be delighted to feature them in this section.
UPCOMING EVENTS& PROGRAMS
The LBS Healthcare Initiative invites healthcare professionals to a 3-day intensive programme on effective healthcare marketing Participants will learn how to build trusted brands, develop winning marketing strategies, leverage digital tools, and navigate healthcare marketing regulations.
Date: July 6–8, 2026
Delivery: Hybrid (Lagos Business School & Online)
Fee: ₦750,000
Register: https://bit.ly/marketing-your-healthcare-product
A highly selective initiative designed to develop, mentor, and connect outstanding young graduates for future opportunities.
The Young Talents Programme (YTP) is Lagos Business School’s flagship talent development initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing exceptional young graduates across Nigeria.
Through an intensive learning experience, participants are equipped with the leadership, problem-solving, and professional skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive world
Built on the pillars of mentorship, talent development, and talent sourcing, YTP challenges participants to collaborate, tackle real-world problems, and present innovative solutions while benefiting from faculty-led and professional mentorship that extends beyond the programme.
Participation is highly competitive, with only about 50 outstanding candidates selected annually from across the country.
Eligibility: First Class or Second Class Upper graduates under 30 years old who are currently undergoing or have completed NYSC.
Programme Dates: July 23–25, 2026
Registration is now open for the France–Nigeria Agribusiness Series 1, a strategic platform bringing together key players across the agrifood ecosystem to strengthen collaboration between France and Nigeria.
This landmark event will convene highlevel stakeholders, including members of the diplomatic community, agrifood companies, investors, policymakers, and business leaders, to explore opportunities shaping the future of agribusiness and food innovation.
The event is organised by @jrfarmsgroup in
collaboration with the France–Nigeria Chamber of Commerce ( @CCIFN ) and @franceinnigeria .
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Email: contact@jrfarmsgroup.com
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In line with Lagos Business School's vision of developing responsible leaders to inspire Africa's growth, the alumni office continues to recognise classes who contribute to this dream through various means.
We are proud of the numerous initiatives of LBS alumni towards creating a better society wherever they find themselves.
We are encouraged to, not just be an Oasis of Sanity, but a Citadel of Excellence in the society that is ravaged by many sore examples.
This year's class awards will look deeply into how classes (and individuals within them) contribute their Time, Treasure, Talent and Tribe to help in inspiring Africa's growth. Please assist us in providing information of any and indeed every activity that would help us to make the best judgement for this year's awards
Kindly fill this form whenever you carry out any activities as contained in the class award slides shared with your class:
FEEDBACK
