Ikpeme Neto is a distinguished internal medicine physician turned health technology entrepreneur with a global perspective on healthcare innovation. His journey began with a medical degree from Ireland, and further enriched with postgraduate medical and business training in both Ireland and New Zealand.

With a career that spans four continents, Ikpeme has established himself as a recognized digital health innovator. His remarkable track record includes the creation of companies and products that have significantly enhanced the health and well-being of countless individuals. At the heart of his achievements is the groundbreaking startup, Wellahealth. This data-driven health company has introduced a myriad of products that cater for consumers, governments, businesses and health providers. Its work has seen it participate in several global accelerators such as Techstars, Google and Norrsken impact among others.

Today, Wellahealth boasts of an expansive network of over 2000 health providers across Nigeria, in addition to a substantial user base driven by its industry defining malaria insurance product. This impressive growth has solidified Wella Health’s position as one of the fastest growing and most innovative healthcare solutions providers across Africa.

Ikpeme firmly believes in the transformative power of entrepreneurship to drive lasting societal change. When he’s not leading the charge in healthcare innovation or mentoring budding entrepreneurs in the industry, he finds solace in the rhythms of dance, with a particular passion for Afro Latin dancing.

Educational qualification

• Trinity College, Dublin – Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S.), Medicine · (2006 – 2011)
• University College Dublin – Certificate in healthcare management, Health/Health Care Administration/ Management · (2012 – 2012)

Key achievements in the last decade

• Founded Wellahealth: Established Wellahealth, a health-tech startup aimed at improving healthcare access and quality across Africa. Developed affordable and accessible health insurance plans for common illnesses, utilizing pharmacies as the point of care.
• Healthcare Financial Accessibility: Led efforts to make healthcare financially accessible to low-income communities in Africa, addressing a critical need in the region and improving health outcomes for underserved populations.
• Innovation in Healthcare: Pioneered the use of technology to innovate healthcare delivery, leveraging digital solutions to bridge gaps in access and quality of care, particularly in resource-constrained environments.
• Recognition and Admiration: Earned recognition and admiration within the healthcare sector for contributions to improving healthcare access and quality, as well as dedication to social impact through technology-driven solutions.
• PandemicTech Affiliation: Affiliated with PandemicTech, an organization dedicated to supporting innovative solutions for global health challenges. Demonstrated a commitment to addressing critical health issues on a global scale through collaboration and innovation.
• Entrepreneurial Leadership: Demonstrated strong entrepreneurial leadership in building and scaling Wellahealth, navigating challenges, and driving growth to expand the reach and impact of the organization.

Important recognition in the last decade

• Google Launchpad Africa (2019)
• Techstars Accelerator Program USA (2019)
• Winner, BFA Global Award (2020)
• SwissRe Entrepreneur Resilience Award 2021
• Norrsken Impact Accelerator Sweden (2021)
• ABH Award 2023

His range of speaking topics

• Business & Entrepreneurship
• Health & Wellness
• Research & Innovation
• Science & Technology