Edge
L
Henry Andoh Director, LBS Alumni Relations
EDITOR’S DESK
The Emotional Edge: How EQ Fuels High Achievers
Welcome, esteemed LBS alumni, to this special edition of Footprints Our theme, “The Emotional Edge: How EQ Fuels High Achievers,” highlights the transformative power of emotional intelligence in addressing pressing challenges in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond
From sales and marketing complexities to the demand for ethical leadership, EQ emerges as a vital solution for sustainable success
In Nigeria's dynamic business landscape, organizations often face low customer trust and high employee disengagement Sales and marketing efforts can become overly transactional, failing to foster the loyalty necessary for long-term growth Emotional intelligence allows professionals to connect deeply, listen actively, and address unspoken needs, transforming interactions into meaningful relationships that inspire trust and loyalty.
Ethical leadership remains a cornerstone of progress in today’s business environment. Leaders often navigate tough decisions where the balance between empathy and accountability is critical. EQ empowers them to act with integrity, fostering trust within teams and driving results aligned with shared values LBS alumni are uniquely positioned to exemplify this balance, championing innovation while staying grounded in ethical principles
This edition explores how emotional intelligence can help leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals rise above challenges, not just to achieve personal success but to drive meaningful change in their organizations and communities Together, let’s lead with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to excellence, ensuring our impact extends far beyond the boardroom
D E S K
RSE D I T O
The Lagos Business School Alumni Association (LBSAA) draws its charter from the vision of Lagos Business School (LBS) The Association is not a social organisation It exists to support the aims and objectives of LBS
Aims of the LBSAA
The aims of the LBS Alumni Association are linked with those of the School. They include:
To promote continuous education for its members and forge a stronger relationship among them
To support LBS in its aims and objectives
To render service to the society, especially in the are of public and private management
To adopt such other objectives as may generally be in the interest of the Association and/or Lagos Business Schooll
Members actively receive continuous education through alumni sessions held all year long. There is also the annual alumni conference held in November which features very high-profile speakers. Active participation in the sessions affords alumni the opportunity to effectively and continually update their knowledge of general management and business subjects
In addition, there are a variety of discounts from corporate bodies ranging from international airlines and major hotels within and outside the country to internet service providers, bookshops, laundry services, etc. available to financial members of the LBSAA They also benefit from discounts on all LBS executive programmes and seminars throughout the year
The LBS alumni network is one of the most influential among business schools in Africa Active participation in alumni programmes and constant visits to the alumni networking platform, https://lIbsalumniconnect com help members stay connected with former course mates, faculty and other alumni. Alumni also benefit from access to research materials available in the LBS library.
Membership
The Association comprises participants who successfully completed the various MBA programmes. It includes the full-time faculty of LBS, chief executives, owner-managers, executive directors, senior and middle-level managers from various executive programmes listed below:
Chief Executive Programme (CEP)
Owner Manager Programme (OMP)
Advanced Management Programme (AMP)
Senior Management Programme (SMP)
Management Acceleration Programme (MAP)
Agri-Business Management Programme (AgMP)
INSIDE LBS
Trailblazing Leadership: Meet LBS’s New Dean, Professor Olayinka David-West
Retail Beyond Borders The Human Touch: How Culture Fuels EQ, Driven by Shared Values
Trailblazing Leadership:
Meet LBS’s New Dean, Professor Olayinka David-West
Lagos Business School Welcomes New Dean: Professor Olayinka David-West Change is on the horizon at Lagos Business School (LBS).
Starting January 1, 2025, Professor Olayinka David-West will step into the role of Dean, following an announcement by the Pan-Atlantic University Governing Council.
Professor David-West succeeds the much-admired Professor Chris Ogbechie, who leaves behind a legacy of 23 impactful years. During his tenure, LBS achieved global accreditations, including AACSB and ISO 9001:2015, and launched groundbreaking programs while achieving record enrolments.
Olayinka is a member of the African Women in Finance and Payments. She is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), and an academic advocate for the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). She is also a qualified practitioner of the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). In addition to these, Olayinka serves as an independent non-executive director at Stanbic IBTC Asset Management and Sterling Bank Ltd. She is a member of the Mastercard Policy Centre Advisory Board.
Holding a Doctorate in Business Administration from Manchester Business School and an MSc in Business Systems Analysis from City University, London, Professor David-West is ready to guide LBS into a bold new era. With her passion for innovation and nurturing future leaders, the school is poised for even greater success under her leadership.
Retail Beyond Borders: Expanding Local Trade, Unlocking Global Markets
The Africa Retail Congress 2024, hosted by Lagos Business School, brought together over 1,000 industry leaders, stakeholders, and policymakers under the theme “Retail Beyond Borders: Expanding Local Trade, Unlocking Global Markets.”
This transformative event focused on equipping African businesses with the tools and strategies to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global market.
Key sessions emphasized leveraging AI and data analytics to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations. These insights inspired startups like Zambezi Style, which began planning its expansion into West Africa during the Congress. Discussions on policy and regulation provided clarity on navigating cross-border trade complexities, benefiting brands such as Kabelo Trading, now poised for East African market entry.
The Congress celebrated excellence with the Retail Innovator Award, presented to Timbuktu Traders for their innovative blend of cultural authenticity and technology. Attendees left armed with actionable insights, fostering collaborations and creating resilient, adaptable business models for sustainable growth.
Beyond its engaging sessions, the Congress became a vital platform for high-level networking and knowledge sharing. As one participant noted, "Retail in Africa will never be the same."
In our August 2024 newsletter, we shared how Culture: Our Shared Compass guides innovation and collaboration Today, we will look deeper to explore how a strong organizational culture nurtures emotional intelligence (EQ) and strengthens interpersonal connections
Culture, Values, and the Role of EQ
Culture reflects the collective behaviors, beliefs, and practices of an organization, while values are its guiding principles the "why" behind the culture EQ, the ability to understand and manage emotions effectively, plays a vital role in shaping how we work together When culture and values align with emotional intelligence, they create a cohesive environment where relationships and results flourish
A Case Study
Let’s look at Lagos Business School (LBS) as an example On Monday, 25th Nov 2024, during LBS Culture Day, themed Living Our Values, the school reignited its core values Three slogans emerged as practical reminders of its ethos:
Do it the LBS Way or don’t do it at all
There is always time to do it the LBS Way
When you see it, own it
These slogans emphasize empathy, consistency, and accountability, values that reinforce EQ in every interaction.
How Does This Work?
Consider this scenario: A direct report missed a deadline Instead of reacting harshly, a
The Human Touch: How Culture Fuels EQ, Driven by Shared Values
superior guided by shared values might approach the situation empathetically, asking questions to understand challenges before offering constructive support This EQ-driven response strengthens trust and cultivates a growth-focused workplace
Going Beyond Words: Embedding Values for Emotional Success
It starts with you Reading this article adds to the empowerment you ’ ve been waiting for to take small yet impactful steps in your organization Here are actionable strategies: Branded Reminders: Create items displaying your organization’s values to keep them visible and accessible
1. Reinforce Through Events: Host regular Culture/Values Days to reflect, celebrate, and recommit to your principles
3
2 Recognize Excellence: Reward individuals who consistently embody your organization’s values
4
Empower Champions: Encourage dedicated team members to lead and uphold the practice of these values.
When culture is intentional and values are actively lived, EQ becomes second nature, building resilient, purpose-driven teams By aligning values with your organizational vision, you can lead with emotional intelligence and inspire meaningful impact
Joshua Mbak Lagos Business School
The Quiet Manipulator: Is Your EQ Helping Others or Serving Yourself?
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is widely regarded as an essential trait for effective leadership It builds trust, strengthens relationships, and drives collaboration However, EQ is not immune to misuse. Sometimes, leaders unintentionally let their emotional intelligence morph into self-serving behaviors, turning a strength into a liability
In this article, we’ll explore scenarios that depict common settings where leaders might fall into these traps These examples are designed to paint vivid pictures of how these mistakes manifest, helping you identify and avoid them in your own leadership journey
1. The Hero's Instinct: Masked as Empathy
A project manager notices an employee struggling to draft a high-stakes proposal Instead of coaching the employee or addressing the root challenges, the manager takes over the task entirely On the surface, it seems like a caring act, but it leaves the employee feeling incapable and overly reliant This approach satisfies the manage need to be the “hero,” but genuine empathy involves empowering others to grow through their struggles, not rescuing them every time
This behavior creates the illusion of active listening while serving the leader’s desire to control the narrative. True listening involves being open to diverse perspectives and embracing ideas that might challenge your own.
3. The Need for Approval: Masked as SelfAwareness
A team leader frequently asks their colleagues, “Do you think I handled that situation well?” or “Was my input helpful?” While this may seem like an effort to seek feedback, it’s often driven by a deep craving for validation. Constantly seeking affirmation drains the team’s energy and shifts focus away from meaningful growth. Authentic self-awareness requires leaders to reflect independently and act without the constant need for external approval.
4. The Spotlight Seeker: Masked as Social Skills
2. The Need to Be Right: Masked as Listening
During a strategy meeting, a leader encourages their team to share ideas for a new initiative They appear attentive, nodding and paraphrasing what’s said, but ultimately steer the conversation back to their original plan
At a company networking event, a senior executive engages with several attendees, effortlessly charming the room. Yet, every conversation revolves around their achievements and ideas, leaving little space for genuine dialogue. This behavior highlights charisma but lacks the depth required for meaningful connections. True social skills involve fostering two-way interactions where others feel seen, heard, and valued.
How to stay Authentic
Guide, don’t rescue: Provide support by offering advice or resources
EMPATHY
SOCILA SKIL
Shift the focus: Make conversations about the other person by asking thoughtful questions and actively listening
EQ THE GAME CHANGER
Focus on growth, not praise: Use feedback as a tool for learning and improvement, not as a measure of your worth
SELF AWARENESS
SELF REGULATION
5. The Overachiever: Masked as Motivation
A sales manager constantly pushes their team to exceed targets, showering them with pep talks about ambition and success On the surface, this seems like genuine motivation, but the manager ' s relentless drive stems from their own need to gain recognition and outshine their peers The team begins to feel burned out, pressured to achieve results that serve the manager ’ s image more than the team’s well-being or collective goals While appearing motivational, the manager ’ s actions prioritize personal accolades over sustainable team success
Stay flexible: Show readiness to adjust your ideas when better solutions arise
OTIVATION
Prioritize Team Goals Over Personal Ambitions: Focus on team success, not personal recognition
Conclusion
Leaders often fall into these traps without realizing it, as they are rooted in good intentions but veer into self-serving territory By recognizing how EQ can be masked as something it’s not whether empathy, listening, self-awareness, or other traits leaders can course-correct and practice emotional intelligence authentically These scenarios aren’t just cautionary tales; they’re reminders to align your leadership with the principles of trust, growth, and true connection
Joshua Mbak Lagos Business School
RATING POINTS
Always (5 points)
Most of the time (4 points)
Frequently (3 points)
Sometimes (2 points)
Rarely (1 point)
Never (0 point)
SCORING AND RESULTS
Scoring: Add up your points from all the questions.
60–75 points: You have exceptional emotional intelligence! Your ability to manage your emotions and connect with others is a major strength.
45–59 points: You demonstrate strong emotional intelligence but might find areas to refine further for greater impact.
30–44 points: Your emotional intelligence is developing Consider focusing on specific dimensions to improve. Below 30 points: You have room to grow. Reflect on the questions where you scored lower and consider steps to enhance your EQ.
REFLECT & ENHANCE EQ
Everyone has EQ strengths and areas to improve. While it’s tempting to focus on your lowest scores, start by building on your strengths This boosts positive emotions like hope and confidence, which help tackle challenges Identify one or two strong competencies (your highest scores) and find ways to use them more.
For weaker areas, get a second opinion. Ask a trusted friend or colleague for honest feedback on your EQ Share that you’re working on improvement and schedule time to discuss their insights compared to your own
ALUMNI HAPPENINGS
MichaelAbiodunThomas,AMP38
MichaelAbiodunThomasannouncedas managingdirector/chiefexecutivefor UnitedCapitalTrustees
Readfullstory
OyindaAdebayo,Class
Hugecongratsonthearrivalofbaby DelaniLukeAdebayo! Wishingyouand yourfamilylotsofloveandjoy
TheclasspresidentofEMBA16andtwoothermembers,visitMr Anderson,thehusbandofthelateMrsMarthaAnderson,analumnus ofLBSEMBA16 whobanditsmurderedonDec28th 2003 #LBSAlumniHappenings
Mr.SamEgube,EMBA4
WecongratulateourEMBA4 AlumnusSamEgube(immediately pastcommissionerforBudgetand economicplanning LASG)onhis appointmentasDeputyChiefOf StafftoLagosStateGovernor BabajideSanwo-Olu.
ReadMore
RotimiAkinde,SMP51
TinubuappointsRotimiAkinde,as executivedirectorsofBOI
PearlIjeomaOkoro,AMP24
NigeriantrailblazerPearlIjeoma OkoroelectedtoRotaryFoundation BoardofTrustees
AlbertoOsuji,SMP71
InAlberto’swords “Inmyeffortsto strivetowardsadvancingforabetter Society,Iwishtomostrespectfully informthatIhavecompletedmy programmeatKuruand subsequently,waselectedasthe SecretaryGeneral,PSLCCourse49, oftheNationalInstituteforPolicyand StrategicStudies(NIPSS),Kuru,Jos, PlateauState”
Readfullstory
Efeturi Emeledor publishes her first children's book titled “MUM's NOT TELLING”, enjoy the adventure #LBSAlumniHappenings
ReadMore Mr ChijiokeUgochukwu,EMBA1
WecongratulateMrsChijioke onherappointmentasnonexecutivedirectoratCharms Holdco Plc
Show of Support
LBS Golf Tournament 2024
GC Handover Meeting
Class of 2014 Reunion
Alumni Day 2024
President's Dinner 2024
SHOW OF SUPPORT
L-R:UzomaChukwuma,MichaelThomas,ManagingDirector&CEO, UnitedCapital,EstherOjoandTitiloyeBolarinwa,HeadInstitutional Trust,UnitedCapital
L-R:NonsoAnigbogu,CEO-Nonsman, OmotayoAkinyede,GbengaAdigun, CEOScrella.AlsowithKateAdesomoju, CEOSpectrumandSeunAli,COO
L-R:HelenOnyeri-Chukwuma,MD: JenneobiEnvironmentalLabServices Ltd,GbengaAdigun,CEOScrella, OmotayoAkinyede.
L-R:EmekaUmeofiaOMP18,Judith,OmotayoAkinyede,Gregory OnuwabhagbeOMP39
L-R:EstherOjo,JoyEzeoke SeniorHRManager,Seplat EnergyPlcandOmotayo Akinyede
L-R:UzomaChukwuma,AyodeleAbioye,MDBUAFoods,EstherOjo
L-R:UzomaChukwuma,JohnsonChukwu, Founder&GroupCEO,CowryAsset Management,EstherOjo.
L-R:UzomaChukwuma,Samson Iyayi,HRManager,Montego Group,EstherOjo
L-R:OmotayoAkinyede DrIsa Omagu,BOIandEstherOjo
L-R:OmotayoAkinyede,Yemi AfariogunOMP39andJudith
L-R:EstherOjo,Tolani,MTNand UzomaChukwuma
L-R:UzomaChukwuma,Rufai Ladipo,ViceChairman,Ikoyi Club,EstherOjo
LBS GOLF TOURNAMENT 2024
The LBS Maiden Golf Tournament, held on May 17, 2024, at Ikoyi Golf Club, successfully brought together golfers of all levels for a day of friendly competition and networking. Attendees enjoyed a golf clinic to refine their skills, followed by an exciting awards ceremony with numerous prizes. This inaugural event showcased LBS’s dedication to fostering alumni connections and set the stage for future networking opportunities.
Thankyou toourSponsors
GC ELECTION AND HANDOVER 2024
On July 13, 2024, the LBS Alumni Association held elections at Four Points by Sheraton Lagos, marking the beginning of a new leadership cycle As per tradition, the outgoing vice president ascended to the presidency, ensuring continuity in the association’s vision
The formal handover took place at the LBS Annual President’s Dinner on November 16, 2024, at Harbour Point In his farewell speech, Mr Agada Apochie, CEO of Unified Payments and outgoing president, reflected on his successful two-year tenure, highlighting key achievements: expanding the alumni association internationally, engaging public sector leadership, and strengthening governance He expressed gratitude to his team and encouraged continued support for the incoming president.
Dr Owen D Omogiafo, OON, the new president, graciously accepted the baton, thanking Mr Apochie for his leadership and acknowledging the support of Prof Chris Ogbechie, Dean of Lagos Business School This transition marks the start of a new chapter, with Dr Omogiafo committed to continuing the growth and collaboration within the alumni community
CLASS OF 2014 REUNION 2024
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2014 CLASSES
CEP23, AMP26, OMP18, EMBA18, MEMBA1, MBA11, SMP51, SMP52, SMP53, SMP54, AGMP1
ALUMNI ACTIVITIES
ALUMNI DAY CONFERENCE 24
NAVIGATING DISRUPTIONS: HARNESSING AI FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS
On November 15, 2024, Lagos Business School hosted its Alumni Day Conference themed “Navigating Disruptions: Harnessing AI for Business Success”, organized by the EMBA 11 class.
The event opened with remarks from Professor Chris Ogbechie, Dean of LBS, and Mr. Tony Elumelu, CFR, who emphasized AI's role in driving Africa’s economic progress Dr Bosun Tijani, Hon Minister of Communications, delivered a keynote on AI’s potential to enhance competitiveness and simplify processes. Highlights included economic insights from Mr. Niyi Yusuf and Professor Bongo Adi, alongside a panel featuring industry leaders like Akeem Lawal and Folusho Gbadamosi, discussing AI’s business impact and the importance of youth digital skill development. Key takeaways urged embracing AI, youth investment, and collaboration to remain competitive Special appreciation went to speakers, guests, and sponsors for making the event a success
ALUMNI ACTIVITIES
PRESIDENT’S DINNER 2024
THEME: HUMANITY FIRST
The prestigious LBSAA President's Dinner, held on November 16, 2024, was a night to remember The day began with a vibrant networking session, complemented by a Humanity First wall where attendees shared heartfelt messages. Soft music set the tone for meaningful connections before everyone proceeded to the main hall for an evening filled with dancing, exciting games, and memorable gifts.
The two hallmark moments of the night included the emotional handover ceremony,
where our immediate past president, Mr. Agada Apochie, passed the baton to the incoming president, Dr Owen D Omogiafo, OON It was a nostalgic moment of unity as attendees raised their phone lights in solidarity, celebrating the spirit of Humanity First. The evening reached another high as AMP 22 clinched the Best Class Award yet again this year
✨ Watch more highlights and the full event on our social media platforms.
Thankyou toourSponsors
The Emotional Edge:
6 Game-Changing Skills Every Sales Champion Has
In today’s competitive marketplace, brands are no longer just selling products; they are forging emotional connections with customers According to S Gomathi et al (2015), emotions represent a higher level of intelligence, and leveraging this intelligence can transform sales efforts Emotional intelligence (EI), defined as the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and those of others, is proving to be a game-changer in driving customer engagement and loyalty (Alzoubi et al , 2022)
How Emotional Intelligence Drives Sales Success
A potential buyer hesitates while browsing a product Instead of pushing a generic sales pitch, the salesperson observes the buyer's subtle body language and tone. By employing self-regulation, they practice active listening, uncover the buyer's unspoken concern a need for post-purchase support and address it directly Reassuring the customer with tailored solutions, the salesperson not only closes the sale but also earns their loyalty This ability to connect deeply with customers stems from high emotional intelligence By understanding both the spoken and unspoken needs of customers, sales professionals can address challenges effectively and build trust.
6 Game-Changer Skills for Sales Champions
To transform salespeople into champions, organizations must focus on developing emotional intelligence Here are six essential EQ skills that set sales champions apart:
Enhanced
Communication – Social Skills:
Sales champions excel in building rapport, negotiating effectively, and handling objections seamlessly, ensuring conversations are productive and engaging
Improved Team Dynamics – Self-Awareness:
By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, these individuals foster collaboration and innovation within their teams, creating a supportive and dynamic work environment
Stronger Relationships – Empathy: The ability to step into the customer’s shoes allows sales champions to address concerns meaningfully and offer personalized solutions that resonate
Adaptability to Change – Self-Regulation:
Resilience and composure in the face of challenges make sales champions agile and adaptable in today’s ever-evolving marketplace
Customer-Centric Decision Making –Empathy: Using emotional insights, they align their strategies to customer needs, ensuring every solution feels tailored and intentional Motivation and Engagement – Motivation: Champions find purpose in their work, staying driven to exceed targets and inspire others to achieve greatness
The Path to Success
Sales champions are made, not born By fostering emotional intelligence, teams can connect authentically, adapt to challenges, and drive lasting success
Invest in EQ today because understanding emotions is the ultimate sales advantage
Prof. Louis I. Nzegwu Prof. Marketing Lagos Business School
A TRIP TO SONDER-LAND
sonder
n the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own-populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries and inherited craziness-an epic story that continues invisibly around you like an anthill sprawling deep underground, with elaborate passageways to thousands of other lives that you'll never know existed, in which you might appear only once, as an extra sipping coffee in the background, as a blur of traffic passing on the highway, as a lighted window at dusk
Source: Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows
Have you ever considered how many people you have hurt in your quest to be the next big thing?
In our fast-paced world, we often forget to reflect on the basics that make us human. We are tempted to neglect those intangible things that matter most Let us briefly talk about 26-year-old Anna Sebastian Perayil, a Chartered Accountant who worked at EY until her death in July 2024 Anna reportedly requested compassionate leave, which was not granted She carried on working until the pressure became unbearable
At Anna's burial, no representatives from EY were present This omission sparked outrage from her family How can a human life be treated so callously? What has happened to our collective humanity? Is this the norm or an exception? Would Anna have survived if she had been employed at your organisation?
We live in an era where indifference thrives It is disheartening to hear colleagues still struggling to recall each other's names after two years of working together We care so much about metrics while ignoring the people behind them It is crucial to reflect on the factors eroding our humanity our ability to empathise and show solidarity As leaders, we must consider how our actions and inactions impact the lives of those we encounter daily
Let us remember our responsibility to prioritise being human above all else
David Okafor Lagos Business School
EI WORK SHEET
BOOST YOUR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
3 Questions to boost your EQ
BOOST YOUR EQ
This workbook invites readers to reflect, interact, and build their emotional edge by answering thought-provoking questions and engaging in practical activities
1
Self-Discovery: Bridging the Gap
Prompt: List three words that describe you. Ask three others to do the same. Compare the lists.
Reflection Questions: What differences stand out? How might these impact your interactions?
2
Aligning EI with Your Goals
Prompt: What is one professional and one personal goal you want to achieve in the next year?
Reflection Questions: How could improving your emotional intelligence help you reach these goals? What motivates you to work on your EQ?
3
Creating New Habits for Growth
Prompt: Reflect on a recent conversation. Did you listen actively, or were you quick to interrupt or judge?
Reflection Questions: How could pausing and listening differently have impacted the conversation? What will you do next time to improve your approach?
