Osinbajo Challenges MBA Students to Lead Without a Blueprint

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has urged emerging business and public-sector leaders to develop the courage, judgement and resilience required to make critical decisions in situations where there are no clear answers or established blueprints.

Osinbajo made the call while speaking to MBA students at Lagos Business School on the theme, “Leading Without a Blueprint.”

According to the former Vice President, some of the most consequential decisions leaders make are often confronted with uncertainty and cannot be guided by a predetermined manual.

He noted that leadership requires the ability to assess complex situations, exercise sound judgement and take decisive action even when the outcome is uncertain.

“The most important challenges will often arrive without a manual,” Osinbajo said, stressing the need for leaders to combine courage with thoughtful decision-making when navigating unfamiliar circumstances.

The former Vice President also acknowledged the contribution of Owen Omogiafo, OON, who delivered a keynote address on the same theme, describing the engagement as an opportunity for meaningful exchange on the demands of leadership.

Osinbajo further used the occasion to reconnect with Professor Pat Utomi and interact with members of the Lagos Business School academic community.

He expressed appreciation to the Dean of Lagos Business School, Professor Olayinka David-West, and the MBA Director, Chinedu Ewuzie, for the warm reception.

The former Vice President also visited Professor Olawale Ajai’s class, where he spent time engaging with students.

Reflecting on his return to an academic environment, Osinbajo said he found it refreshing to interact with students preparing themselves for the responsibilities of leadership.

He emphasised the importance of preparing future leaders not merely with technical knowledge, but also with the capacity to navigate uncertainty, make difficult decisions and provide direction when established solutions are unavailable.

His engagement with the MBA students highlights the growing importance of leadership education in preparing professionals to respond effectively to complex challenges in business, government and society.