In Nigeria, conditions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and testosterone deficiency affect nearly 30% to 50% of men. Despite their widespread occurrence, these issues are often shrouded in silence due to cultural stigmas and traditional views on masculinity. This reluctance to openly address such health concerns frequently results in lowered confidence, relationship difficulties, and psychological distress.
The societal expectation for men to appear strong and invulnerable discourages many from seeking professional medical advice. As a result, some men turn to unproven remedies or neglect their symptoms altogether, which can worsen their health outcomes over time.
To confront these challenges, digital health services like Priv Health have emerged, offering confidential and easily accessible healthcare solutions tailored specifically for men. Established to overcome the barriers men face in obtaining sensitive medical care, Priv Health provides a discreet alternative to conventional healthcare settings.
Priv Health was co-founded by Joseph Anya and Dr. Olusina Ajidahun, who recognized that embarrassment, lack of awareness, and the complexity of traditional healthcare systems often prevent men from seeking timely medical attention.
“Men generally experience poorer health outcomes and shorter lifespans compared to women, largely because they receive less adequate care. While innovations in women’s health are abundant, solutions focused on men’s health remain limited,” Anya explained in a discussion with Techpoint Africa.
The Nigerian market is saturated with unregulated supplements that claim to resolve men’s health issues quickly but can sometimes aggravate the conditions. Additionally, many men postpone medical consultations until their symptoms become severe, complicating treatment efforts.
Priv Health tackles these obstacles by prioritizing confidentiality, convenience, and user-friendly access. While women’s health technologies-from fertility monitors to prenatal care-have gained significant attention, men’s health technology is still an underserved area.
Founders’ Backgrounds
Joseph Anya and Dr. Olusina Ajidahun bring complementary skills to Priv Health. Anya previously launched an e-commerce bookstore in 2018, managing sales and inventory across multiple locations. He also gained valuable experience working with organizations such as CcHub, WellaHealth, and MoMo.
By 2022, Anya had founded Lifebox Labs, the parent company behind Priv Health, which focuses on developing healthcare solutions for chronic diseases and other medical needs.
After connecting with Dr. Ajidahun-known online as The Bearded Dr. Sina-the pair collaborated in 2024 to build a digital platform dedicated to improving men’s health in Nigeria.
Since its inception in January 2024, Priv Health has supported over 1,000 men and cultivated a community of 8,000 members, generating ₦19 million in revenue so far.
“Our mission extends beyond healthcare delivery; we aim to create a supportive space where men can openly discuss their health concerns and seek help, fostering a community across various platforms,” Anya shared.
How Priv Health Functions
Priv Health specializes in addressing men’s health issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, testosterone deficiency, hair thinning, mental wellness, and general health maintenance.
The process begins with clients completing a detailed online questionnaire about their symptoms and medical background. Licensed doctors then review these responses to craft individualized treatment plans.
“Treatment varies by case and may include prescriptions, laboratory tests, or lifestyle recommendations. Each plan is tailored from the initial consultation onward,” Anya explained.
After establishing a treatment strategy, Priv Health coordinates medication delivery and partners with diagnostic labs for any necessary tests. Patients can choose home sample collection, with results conveniently delivered to them.
Business Model for Men’s Health
Operating as a hybrid telehealth and e-pharmacy platform, Priv Health directly serves consumers while addressing the stigma surrounding men’s health. Its revenue streams include consultation fees, medication sales, and diagnostic services.
Virtual consultations are priced at ₦8,000 and conducted by in-house medical professionals. The platform applies a 50% markup on medications and supplements delivered to patients’ preferred locations.
For laboratory diagnostics, Priv Health collaborates with partner centers, earning a 20% commission on each test. Sample collection can be arranged at home or at the lab, depending on patient preference, with prompt delivery of results and follow-up care.
This approach eliminates common obstacles such as social stigma, travel inconveniences, and long waiting times, making healthcare more accessible for busy urban men.
However, the platform’s effectiveness relies heavily on the dependability of its laboratory partners and delivery services. Any issues with test accuracy or medication fulfillment could erode patient confidence and harm the company’s reputation.
While Priv Health excels in remotely managing sexual and mental health conditions, it does not fully replace the need for in-person medical care, which may limit its revenue potential compared to full-service hospitals.
Nonetheless, with the global men’s health market valued at $54 billion, Priv Health is strategically positioned for significant expansion.
Unique Advantages and Future Vision
Anya emphasizes that Priv Health’s exclusive dedication to men’s health sets it apart from competitors with broader healthcare focuses. The seamless integration of medical services with e-commerce delivery enhances user convenience.
Looking ahead, the company plans to venture into pharmaceutical manufacturing, aiming to create proprietary brands of widely used medications.
“Our goal is to develop customized, low-dose daily medications that resemble supplements, making treatment easier and more appealing,” Anya revealed.