Nigeria’s leading fitness chain, i-Fitness, has expanded its footprint with the launch of a new branch in the Orchid community of Ikate, Lekki, Lagos, marking a significant milestone as the company’s 26th location across the country.
The opening of this new branch underlines i-Fitness’ sustained commitment to promoting healthier living and making fitness more accessible and enjoyable for everyday Nigerians.
Speaking at the opening event, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of i-Fitness, Foluso Ogunwale, said the new centre was part of the company’s broader mission to build a fitness-conscious society. He noted that the Orchid branch will serve as a beacon of wellness for residents in Lekki and its surrounding communities.
“True fitness is grounded in community,” Ogunwale said. “We are happy to welcome Orchid residents to our fitness community, helping them live healthier and happier through fitness. Our vision is to make fitness a lifestyle for more Nigerians.”
Now in its 10th year of operations, i-Fitness is regarded as one of the most accessible fitness brands in Nigeria, with locations in key cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. According to Ogunwale, the brand is more than just a gym — it is a movement to transform lives and embed wellness into everyday Nigerian life.
He added, “Fitness is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. We are committed to making fitness more common, convenient, fun, and rewarding.”
The Orchid branch features modern workout facilities, world-class gym equipment, and access to professionally certified personal trainers, reflecting i-Fitness’ approach to building inclusive and supportive environments where individuals, regardless of age or ability, feel encouraged to pursue their health goals.
Ogunwale explained that as i-Fitness grows, it remains focused on promoting fitness culture in Nigeria, and the company is determined to continue bridging the gap between Nigerians and structured wellness practices.
“All i-Fitness branches are designed to foster an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of fitness level, is motivated and supported to achieve their fitness aspirations,” he said.
The company’s track record includes a subscriber base of over 40,000 members and a network of more than 250 certified personal trainers, making it Nigeria’s most extensive fitness brand by reach and resources.
Reacting to the new opening, several Orchid community residents who attended the launch praised the initiative, saying it would help improve the health consciousness of the neighbourhood, especially among youths and working-class professionals.
With rising concerns about sedentary lifestyles, stress, and health-related conditions, industry watchers have said fitness centres like i-Fitness are playing a crucial role in reshaping wellness attitudes in Nigeria.
According to a 2023 report by the Global Wellness Institute, Nigeria’s wellness market is growing steadily as more urban Nigerians become health-conscious, partly driven by increasing access to fitness clubs, healthy food, and preventive care.
i-Fitness, by maintaining a presence in both upscale and developing communities, appears to be leveraging this trend by expanding access to structured and fun physical activity, without the intimidation that often comes with gym environments.
The company is also known for offering various wellness services including group classes, personal training, fitness assessments, and wellness education — all aimed at making fitness not only accessible but sustainable.
In his closing remarks at the launch, Ogunwale hinted that more branches and innovations are on the way, reinforcing the company’s goal to be Nigeria’s most trusted fitness partner.
“i-Fitness is not just a community — it is a movement,” he said, urging Nigerians to take responsibility for their health while assuring them of the brand’s continuous support on their fitness journey.
As i-Fitness celebrates a decade of impact, industry observers say it remains well-positioned to drive long-term wellness transformation in Nigeria through its accessible, fun, and people-first approach to fitness.
