Mobolaji Ajayi, the Nigerian entrepreneur and CEO of Purelife Pharmacy, has recently made waves as one of the top 10 finalists in Africa’s Business Heroes Prize Competition.
Out of over 20,000 applicants from across all 54 African nations, Ajayi’s innovative approach to healthcare has earned her a place in the final round, set to take place this December in Kigali, Rwanda.
Ajayi’s journey began when she noticed a significant gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Many Nigerians turn to pharmacies as their first point of contact for medical needs, yet the services offered were often limited to medication alone.
Recognizing this opportunity, she envisioned a pharmacy that would not only provide medications but also offer primary healthcare services. In 2021, she launched Purelife Pharmacy in Lagos with initial funding from her family, marking the beginning of a venture that has since exceeded expectations.
What started as a small, family-funded business has grown exponentially. Purelife Pharmacy now operates on a bootstrapped model and has generated revenues 10 times its initial investment. In 2023, Ajayi expanded Purelife’s reach by introducing a digital platform. This online service allows customers to buy healthcare products, consult with doctors, and book lab services like blood tests, urine tests, and vaccinations. While Purelife directly offers some of these services, it also partners with third-party providers and earns a commission when patients are referred to these external companies.
In addition to its digital growth, Purelife has also expanded physically, with four branches across Lagos. These stores not only serve walk-in customers but also function as fulfilment centers for the online platform. Currently, 25% of Purelife’s sales are made through the online platform, but Ajayi expects this percentage to rise as more Nigerians embrace digital healthcare solutions.
Ajayi is optimistic about the future of healthcare in Nigeria, especially regarding homecare services and as the healthcare sector continues to evolve, Ajayi’s vision and persistence are helping shape a new path for pharmacy services in Nigeria, blending technology with personalized care to meet the growing needs of the population.
