When Joycee Awosika founded Oríkì Group a decade ago, the concept of wellness was still emerging, particularly across the African continent. What began in 2014 as a vision to elevate African brands on the world stage, and in 2015 as a modest showroom on Victoria Island, has since evolved into a dynamic multinational enterprise focused on pioneering wellness innovation, luxury, and empowerment.
In a recent press gathering ahead of its 10th anniversary on October 26, ORÍKÌ Group reflected on its impressive journey, expanding reach, and ambitious plans for the future.
“Wellness used to be seen as a luxury reserved for a few; today, it has become an essential aspect of self-care and preventive health for many,” shared Joycee Awosika, Founder and CEO of ORÍKÌ Group.
Starting with its first spa on Oju Olobun, Victoria Island in 2015, ORÍKÌ has grown to establish a presence in the prestigious Oriental Hotel and expanded to 15 locations across Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda. The group has championed a unique approach to Africa’s wellness industry-one that blends scientific knowledge, cultural traditions, and community engagement. Its innovative service, Unwind by ORÍKÌ, often described as the “Airbnb of spa services,” has brought relaxation and therapeutic treatments directly to thousands of homes through mobile therapists in cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Kampala, and Nairobi.
Beyond delivering wellness experiences, ORÍKÌ is deeply committed to empowerment. Through extensive training initiatives, the company has cultivated a network of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. Its Anoint Haircare product line, now distributed across four regions, highlights the brand’s expertise in creating and scaling indigenous beauty products infused with African botanicals like cloves, kola nuts, and atilli oil.
The company’s growth has also led to partnerships with seven Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), allowing clients to access spa and wellness services via prepaid health plans-an innovative first in Nigeria’s wellness sector.
“For us, wellness is more than a business; it represents sincere, intentional care for individuals,” Awosika emphasized. “Our focus is on people, aiming to make wellness accessible, sustainable, and empowering.”
At the event, Abiodun Obaseki, ORÍKÌ Spas’ Head of Operations, stressed that wellness is a fundamental right, not a privilege. “Our wellness programs are designed for everyone-from busy professionals to seniors, individuals to families,” she noted. “Incorporating wellness into everyday life and prioritizing preventive care over reactive treatment is essential.”
Other members of the ORÍKÌ team echoed this vision, highlighting the brand’s unwavering commitment to wellness and its people-first philosophy. They recounted a journey fueled by resilience, innovation, and purpose, rooted in the belief that true wellness must be inclusive and accessible. From spa therapists to strategic collaborators, every participant contributes to transforming ORÍKÌ into a holistic wellness ecosystem that uplifts individuals, strengthens communities, and leads Africa’s holistic care movement.
Looking forward to its next decade, ORÍKÌ is concentrating on its FSC Manufacturing division (Farm to Skin Manufacturing), which aims to enhance local production of safe, environmentally friendly skincare products that rival synthetic alternatives. The company also plans to open a new spa in Lagos’ VGC district in October 2025, followed by a major international expansion beyond Africa in December 2025.
Internally, ORÍKÌ remains dedicated to cultivating leadership through comprehensive HR programs, ensuring that every team member-affectionately known as the Humans of Oríkì-embodies the brand’s core values of care, excellence, and authenticity.
“What distinguishes ORÍKÌ is our unwavering attention to detail, empathy, and dedication to our people,” Awosika concluded. “We are more than a wellness network; we are a foundation that empowers others to thrive. Our upcoming decade will redefine wellness on a global scale.”
The 10th Anniversary campaign, themed “Accessible Wellness. Global Impact,” not only honors ORÍKÌ’s milestones but also reaffirms its ongoing commitment to shaping Africa’s wellness story, one transformative care experience at a time.