Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has charged students of the University of Ibadan, School of Business (UISB) to embrace integrity, initiative and resilience as essential ingredients for leadership and success in their professional careers.

The former president gave the charge during a networking luncheon held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta.

The luncheon formed part of a two-day educational field trip to Abeokuta organised by the UISB.

The field trip was designed to expose students to practical learning experiences and bridge the gap between classroom theories and real-world business realities.

Addressing the students, Obasanjo urged them to believe in their abilities, remain focused on their goals and uphold integrity in all their endeavours. He noted that leadership requires vision, discipline and a commitment to excellence.

He stressed that personal values often determine long-term success more than academic qualifications alone.

The programme also included structured networking sessions. Students drawn from diverse academic and professional backgrounds took part in the sessions, exchanging ideas, discussing career opportunities and exploring potential business collaborations.

As part of their itinerary, the students toured the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. During the tour, they assessed a series of exhibitions and historical archives that provided insights into Nigeria’s political history, the evolution of governance, and leadership development.

An academic session was facilitated by Chinedu Nwulia of the University of Ibadan School of Business. The session addressed networking, personal branding and professional visibility in the current business environment.

Nwulia urged the participants to cultivate strategic relationships that create opportunities for career advancement and entrepreneurial growth.

The learning experience also featured a guided visit to Olumo Rock. At the site, students were exposed to the cultural heritage and historical resilience of the Egba people.

Officials of the university said the excursion was part of efforts to strengthen experiential learning and equip students with practical skills required in modern business environments.

The field trip was coordinated by the President of the MBA Students Association, Dapo Tella, and the President of the Entrepreneurship Students Association, Kadri Olawale.

The university said the programme reflects its commitment to producing graduates with theoretical knowledge, leadership capacity, industry exposure, and entrepreneurial competencies required to operate in a changing global economy.