Mrs Kawthar Bolajoko Odukoya is the co-founder and executive director, Vanguard Pharmacy Limited, one of the largest and fastest growing retail companies in the south-west region of Nigeria, with headquarters in Ibadan. It started operations in 2006.
A native of Sagamu, Ogun State, Odukoya was born to the royal family of Alhaji and Alhaja Olusegun Odumesi, the current Lemo of Ode-Lemo, Ogun State. She had her secondary school education at Federal Government Girls College, Sagamu. She is a graduate of Geology, from Olabisi Onabanjo University (Class of 2005). She is also an alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School (Pan-Atlantic University), OMP 19, 2015.
Odukoya participated in the Sandford University Seed Programme 2020, Cohort 11, and has also attended many retail conferences within and outside Nigeria. She observed her mandatory one-year national service (NYSC), at Yejide Girls Grammar School, Molete, Ibadan, Oyo State in 2005
A top-performing management professional, with over 15 years experience, Odukoya demonstrates professional expertise and a diverse range of skills in entrepreneurship, business management, and customer relations. In her role as executive director of Vanguard Pharmacy, she ensures the delivery of clear objectives and exceeds expectations in her businesses.
Under her leadership, the company has shown consistent commitment to being a high standard retail chain business, and a leader in retail pharmacy, veterinary medicine and supermarket. It has been adjudged to carry the largest varieties under a single roof with its unique model of business, known as the “one stop shop”, which provides a distinct competitive advantage backed up with a delightful ambience and customer shopping experience.
A wife, mother and an entrepreneur, Odukoya strives to create an unshakable balance between her home and all other activities outside it. She is blessed with outstanding support from her husband and a great bond of love from her siblings. Her passion includes retailing business, buying and selling, seeing movies, and meeting people.
Mrs Odukoya is happily married to her best friend and business partner, Pharm. Taofik Odukoya and they are blessed with children.
