I n a quiet corner of Magodo, Lagos, nestled among residential buildings and bustling neighborhood activity, lies an unexpected sanctuary—Nunu Spa. It is more than just a wellness center; it is the embodiment of one woman’s resilience, vision, and passion for holistic healing. Founded by Erelu Dr. Anu Esuola, a trained dentist whose journey into the wellness industry is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Ironically, the building that now houses the tranquil spa was never meant to be what it is today. “This building was supposed to be a dental clinic, my second daughter is also a dentist, so I understood what was needed to get started, but while I was trying to get the process underway, I needed a licensed dentist to work there, but I heard that many had ‘japa’, they had left the country. Meanwhile, I had already paid for this place.” With the building already paid for and a vision in motion, she had to think fast. “I do things by the book; I don’t cut corners. So, while figuring out what next, I remembered that I have always been interested in owning a spa—though maybe not quite this way. Still, I thought, ‘This is health. Let me start something new.’ And that’s how begin the wellness journey.” The result was Nunu Spa, named after her college nickname. “In school, they called me Nunu— short for Anu. It stuck. When it was time to name the spa, I wanted something personal and authentic, so I went with Nunu.” Authenticity is indeed a defining trait of both Esuola and her business. Although she had no prior formal training in spa services before opening the business, she did not claim expertise. Instead, she ensured that trained and certified technicians were brought in to deliver services professionally and safely. That dedication to proper practice and her refusal to compromise on standards is evident in every corner of her spa. “From day one, I have been particular about hygiene and professionalism,” she explains. “Everything here is sanitized properly. We do not reuse equipment between clients. Every client has their own kit—clearly marked and stored. For me, it’s not just a business; it’s a responsibility.” While her entry into the wellness space may have been serendipitous, her philosophy of care is deeply intentional. For her, Nunu Spa is more than just a place to get a massage or manicure—it is a healing space, one that promotes mental and emotional balance, as well as physical care. “When you come in here, we want you to feel different from when you came in. More relaxed, more peaceful. That’s what wellness is. We serve light refreshments, offer warm greetings at the door, and treat you with love and respect,” she says. According to her, the spa offers an extensive range of services—pedicure, manicure, braiding, barbing, makeup, and sauna therapy. She also plans to introduce physical therapy services for elderly clients or those recovering from strokes and accidents. “It’s not all about money,” she emphasises. “I want to offer something meaningful. People should have access to therapy and relaxation, especially those who need it the most.” This sense of purpose extends to how she leads her team. Her staff are not just employees—they are mentees and future business leaders in training. “I tell my staff, take ownership. One day, this could be yours. I am mentoring them, not just managing them. I want them to see themselves as more than just workers.” Erelu as she is fondly called is passionate about creating opportunities. She knows that economic empowerment begins at home and with those closest to you. “That’s part of why I started this. I wanted to provide jobs. But I also wanted to give people a place where they’re respected, where they can grow.” Despite the challenges of running a luxury service in Nigeria’s tough economic climate, she remains committed to making Nunu Spa accessible. “Of course, the economy is affecting patronage,” she admits. “Just the other day, I met someone at a grocery store and told her about the spa. She looked at me and said, ‘Madam, I can barely eat.’ I told her, come anyway. I’ll take care of you. Because sometimes, people need that moment of peace more than anything.” She insists that spas shouldn’t be reserved for the wealthy. “Wellness is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. Coming to the spa helps your body. It relieves stress, improves blood flow, and gives you time to breathe. Even sitting down while fixing your nails, you just forget your worries. It calms the mind. It’s therapeutic.” As a woman entrepreneur in Nigeria’s growing beauty and wellness space, Esuola is acutely aware of the stereotypes and double standards that women face. Yet, she has refused to be boxed in. “In this profession, and in many others, being a woman can feel like a double burden. You have to prove yourself twice as much. But, I always say—let your work speak. Let people see you for who you are, not who they want you to be. Carry yourself with dignity and grace.” She is an outspoken advocate of intentional self-care, especially for young women. Her message is clear: your self-worth is not up for negotiation. “To young women, I say, please don’t sell yourself cheap. You are better than that. Let people see your value. You don’t need to expose yourself to attract the right attention. The way you carry yourself matters. “Beauty is in how you carry yourself. I’m short I could wear heels every day. Or I could say, this is me, I’m short and beautiful. I’m dark-skinned. I love it. Black is beautiful. Be confident in who you are. Eat well, drink water, and smile often. And surround yourself with positive people.” Despite juggling multiple roles— beautician, philanthropist, mentor, businesswoman, she admits she hasn’t yet mastered the elusive work-life balance. “I signed up at a gym, but I had to cancel because there is no time. Right now, I’m like a tornado. But I have good people around me who help, and that keeps me going.” When asked what keeps her motivated, especially on tough days, her response is instant. “God. It’s God. Some days, I sit down and ask, ‘Why me?’ But then I look around and I understand. He tells me, ‘Keep going’ and I do.” That unwavering faith is the foundation of her work. Her spirituality is not performative—it is rooted in quiet strength and daily commitment. It shapes how she treats others, how she views her business, and how she dreams for the future. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple and practical: start small. “Don’t wait for millions. If all you have is a small space, start there. Grow from it. Don’t compare yourself to others. Every journey is unique. And remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Neither is a spa, or a dream.” In a time when many businesses chase quick profits or flashy branding, Nunu Spa stands out for its soul. It’s not just a place to get pampered but it’s a place to be seen, heard, and healed. And at its core is a woman who chose to turn a professional setback into a movement for wellness and dignity. From dentistry to deep tissue massages, from navigating bureaucracy to nurturing beauty professionals, Erelu Dr. Anu Esuola is charting a course that is as deeply personal as it is impactful. And as more people step through the doors of Nunu Spa, they walk into more than a wellness center—they enter a space of quiet transformation. Because for Esuola, wellness is not about appearance. It is about how you feel, how you live, and how you love yourself. Buoyed by the success of the Magodo location, Erelu is expanding. “We are opening another one in Sheraton,” she shares. It’s a bold step that reflects her growing vision and commitment to spreading the healing culture of wellness across the city