7 Nigerians Who Made Businesses from Their Hobbies, Skills

When we talk about Nigerian entrepreneurship, there’s a collection of incredible stories about individuals who’ve turned their hobbies into successful businesses. These aren’t just success stories, they’re journeys filled with determination, creativity, and a touch of Nigerian resilience. 

Entrepreneurs are essentially dreamers with a keen eye for seizing opportunities. They possess the unique ability to transform their visions into tangible realities. Yet, it’s not uncommon for others to view them as a bit unconventional, maybe even a tad bit crazy.

Here are some Nigerian prodigies who’ve taken their passions and turned them into thriving ventures, leaving a lasting impact on Nigeria’s entrepreneurial scene.

Jumoke Orisaguna – The Bread Seller Turned Model

Jumoke, born in 1989, is a Nigerian model whose journey to fame took an unexpected turn while selling bread on the streets of Lagos. Fate intervened when she stumbled upon a photo shoot featuring British rapper Tinie Tempah, capturing the attention of the public.

Her appearance on the cover of Above magazine marked the beginning of her modeling career, despite her initial aspirations of becoming an actress. Economic hardships led her to sell ‘Agege Bread,’ yet she remained steadfast in maintaining her physique and dreams.

Since then, Jumoke has become a sought-after model, representing brands such as Stanbic IBTC bank, Shirley’s Confectioneries, and Payporte as a brand ambassador. Her story is a testament to resilience and seizing opportunities amidst adversity.

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji – Tech Visionary

Aboyeji’s journey from Nigeria to co-founding Andela and Flutterwave reflects his passion for technology. Recognizing a talent gap, he leveraged his skills to establish tech solutions, impacting both local and global communities.

Aboyeji, a Kwara State native, gained recognition as one of the top 100 most influential Africans by New African magazine in 2019. Alongside his friends turned business partners, he identified a scarcity of tech talent in the United States and saw an untapped potential in Africa. Joining the ranks of Harambeans at just 19, Aboyeji’s passion for technology fueled his belief in its transformative power. 

Chika Madubuko – Healthcare Innovator

Madubuko founded a groundbreaking digital platform in 2016. This platform links elderly patients in need of round-the-clock care with insured and skilled caregivers. It’s a pioneering concept that utilizes technology to bridge the gap between home-bound seniors and trained professionals in Nigeria.

Madubuko’s academic journey took her from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Anambra State, where she pursued microbiology, to further studies in biotechnology and bioengineering at the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom (UK).

Olabanke Meshida Lawal – The Make-Up Maven

Olabanke, fondly known as “Banke”, didn’t just apply make-up; she transformed it into an art form. From experimenting with cosmetics as a hobby to founding BMPro Makeup Group, she exemplifies the power of passion-driven entrepreneurship.

Hailing from Ile-Ife, Osun State, this talented makeup artist’s dedication and skill earned her notable recognition in the industry. She clinched prestigious awards such as Brand of the Year at the 2009 Eloy Awards, Best Makeup Artist at the Nigerian Event Awards (2012), and Makeup Artist of the Year at the FAB AWARDS (2010).

Banke’s journey into makeup artistry began as a simple passion during her school days. She delighted in enhancing the beauty of her friends before their outings. Over time, what started as a hobby evolved into a lucrative venture for Banke.

Uchenna Jennifer Eze – Digital Trailblazer

Uche Eze’s pioneering venture, BellaNaija.com, started as a hobby while Uche was still in Canada, just before she embarked on her first post-graduation job at Shell and transformed into a leading online media platform. She stands as the founder and managing director of BainStone Limited, established in 2009, and BellaNaija.com, which debuted in 2006. These ventures pioneered Nigeria’s online media landscape.

Born in 1983, Uche’s educational journey commenced in Nigeria before she relocated to Canada. In 2006, she graduated from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario, Canada, with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Uche’s personal life intertwines with her professional journey. She married Bode Pedro, the son of a former deputy governor of Lagos State, and they were blessed with twins. 

Oluwatobi Ajayi – Automotive Trailblazer

Oluwatobi, born in 1988, is a Nigerian entrepreneur who has made significant strides in the automotive industry. Starting his journey at the Nigeria Navy School for his primary and secondary education, he later pursued studies in Soil Sciences and Farm Mechanisation at Olabisi Onabanjo University, graduating in 2010. Continuing his academic pursuits, he earned an MBA from the Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University.

In April 2015, Oluwatobi co-founded Jetvan Automobiles Limited, aiming to revolutionize Mercedes-Benz van sales and services. As CEO until April 2018, he led the company to success. Subsequently, he launched his own venture, Nord Automobile Limited, where he assembles top-quality vehicles. With a valuation of over N4.2 billion, Nord Automobile is a testament to Oluwatobi’s entrepreneurial prowess and dedication to excellence.

Pelumi Nubi – Adventurous Entrepreneur

Pelumi Nubi journey in Nigeria took an unexpected turn about three months ago when she embarked on an extraordinary adventure: driving all the way from London to Lagos. This bold feat quickly brought her into the spotlight.

Today, Pelumi finds herself rubbing shoulders with dignitaries, government officials, and holds the esteemed title of Lagos State Tourism Ambassador. Her once-ordinary hobby has transformed her life in remarkable ways. From meeting the governor to amassing a community of nearly 300k Instagram followers and receiving praise from the former vice-president, Pelumi’s story exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s dreams with determination.