The Federal Government and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have honoured 12-year-old Nigerian-American tech prodigy, Eniola Shokunbi, for her pioneering innovation in air filtration technology, which is already making waves in the United States.
Eniola, who has attracted $11.5 million in research and development grants in Connecticut, USA, designed an advanced air filtration system aimed at reducing air pollution and improving respiratory health.
During her visit to Nigeria, she was formally received in Abuja by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, and NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Dabiri-Erewa described Eniola as “a beacon of hope and a true ambassador of Nigerian ingenuity,” applauding her achievements as a reflection of the potential within Nigeria’s diaspora youth. She emphasized the need to invest in young talent and promote success stories that can inspire the next generation.
Minister Olawande echoed this sentiment, calling Eniola “a symbol of the Nigeria of tomorrow,” and commended her vision, resilience, and impact at such a young age. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth innovation and empowerment.
Accompanied by her mother and two sisters, Eniola expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated her desire to deploy her technology in Nigerian cities to improve air quality.
“I want to inspire other Nigerian children to dream big, solve real problems, and make a positive difference,” she said.
Currently in Nigeria at the invitation of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Eniola’s visit highlights the government’s increasing recognition of diaspora talent as essential contributors to national development, especially in science, technology, and innovation.