12-Year-Old Nigerian-American Inventor Eniola Shokunbi Honoured by Youth Minister, NiDCOM Chair

Nigeria has celebrated a rising star in global innovation, as 12-year-old Nigerian-American tech prodigy Eniola Shokunbi received high commendation from both the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, and the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

Eniola, who gained international acclaim for developing a groundbreaking air filtration system designed to combat pollution and improve respiratory health, visited Nigeria as a guest of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) in Abuja. Her invention has already attracted $11.5 million in grant funding in the United States, where she resides in Connecticut.

Accompanied by her mother and two sisters, Eniola paid courtesy visits to NiDCOM and the Ministry of Youth Development. She was warmly received by Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, who hailed her as “a beacon of hope and a true ambassador of Nigerian excellence,” emphasizing the importance of nurturing diaspora talents and encouraging young innovators.

“Her story is not just about innovation, but about resilience, vision, and hope,” he stated. “We must create an environment where young Nigerians at home and abroad can thrive without limits. We’re committed to amplifying such voices.”

Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to closer engagement with young Nigerians in the diaspora. Hon. Dabiri-Erewa called Eniola “a shining star,” adding that her achievement reflects the limitless potential of Nigerian youth when empowered and supported.

The visit highlights growing efforts by the Nigerian government to recognize and integrate the contributions of diaspora youth in national development, innovation, and diplomacy.