Jane Nwagu, a Nigerian business executive, has successfully completed her online Master of Business Administration (MBA) from SUNY Oswego.
Nwagu, who serves as the Group Head of Business Development for FBN Insurance Brokers in Lagos, traveled to Oswego in December 2024 for her graduation ceremony, where she had the opportunity to meet President Peter O. Nwosu, a fellow Nigerian and the first African-born leader of the institution.
For Nwagu, the MBA is a crucial step toward advancing to a C-suite executive role in Nigeria’s competitive insurance industry.
“The MBA will get me ready for a bigger management role,” Nwagu said, emphasizing that the evolving dynamics of the insurance landscape made the degree essential. “I needed to get the MBA ready so I can be ready for the emerging opportunities. I know a lot is expected when one gets to that level of leadership.”
Having begun her MBA journey in 2021, Nwagu has already applied key lessons from the program in her current leadership role. She oversees a business development department with marketers reporting from four regions across Nigeria.
“From the MBA, I’ve been able to become a better manager of people,” she noted. “In one of the classes, strategic management, I learned a whole lot about how to bring out the best in the team.” These lessons helped her department exceed its targets in the past year.
Before enrolling, Nwagu researched top MBA programs in North America and the UK, focusing on academic excellence and affordability. Her decision was solidified after a strong recommendation from Benjamin Ogwo, her undergraduate mentor at University of Nigeria, Nsukka, who now chairs SUNY Oswego’s Career and Technical Educator Preparation Department.
“His compelling endorsement of SUNY Oswego’s online MBA program convinced me it was the right fit,” Nwagu said.
The program exceeded her expectations, particularly due to the guidance of Irene Scruton, assistant dean and MBA program director.
“From our first interaction, she recognized my potential and provided unwavering support throughout my academic journey,” Nwagu noted. “The dedicated support team, particularly Melisa [Arduini] and Tara [Magner], played an instrumental role in this transformative educational experience.”
Despite her demanding career, Nwagu was determined to attend Commencement in person on December 14, 2024.
“I always told myself that after what I’ve gone through, I’ll be present at Commencement,” she said.
Her excitement grew upon learning that President Peter O. Nwosu had been appointed as SUNY Oswego’s 11th president. Meeting him was a “defining moment” in her academic journey.
“His presidency exemplifies SUNY Oswego’s commitment to recognizing merit and fostering diversity,” Nwagu said. “Our shared Nigerian heritage—both from Anambra state—made his achievements particularly inspiring.”
However, the trip was not without challenges. The day before graduation, she braved Oswego’s famous snowfall, experiencing a whiteout on the drive from Syracuse with Ogwo.
“Despite his demanding schedule, President Nwosu prioritized our meeting, rearranging commitments to have a meaningful discussion,” she recalled. “His leadership and dedication to student engagement provided invaluable insights that will stay with me throughout my career.”
Balancing her studies with a full-time job in Nigeria was not always easy. Infrastructure challenges sometimes affected her online learning experience, but SUNY Oswego’s strong support system ensured she stayed on track.
“The program’s robust online platform and meticulously structured curriculum ensure deep learning beyond mere examination requirements,” she explained. “Each module systematically builds both professional capabilities and personal growth.”
Nwagu also benefited from interactions with industry leaders, including Bob Moritz, the recently retired Global Chairman of PwC.
“The program’s commitment to real-world application was evident through exclusive access to industry leaders,” she added.
Reflecting on her journey, Nwagu expressed deep appreciation for the faculty, mentors, and support staff who contributed to her success.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to an extraordinary team of mentors and educators,” she said. “President Nwosu, for his invaluable time and insights; Dr. Ben Ogwo, for guiding me to SUNY Oswego; and Professor Irene Scruton, whose unwavering belief in my potential shaped my success.”
She also acknowledged the faculty members who accommodated challenges related to studying from Nigeria, sometimes extending deadlines due to infrastructure issues.
