The Federal Government through the Youth Minister and Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NIDCOM has celebrated 12-year-old Eniola Shokunbi, Nigerian- American Tech prodigy who stunned the world with her invention of a revolutionary air filtration system.
Eniola, accoompanied by her Mother and two sisters, visited the NiDCOM Boss, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, as well as the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande.
Eniola, a Nigerian-American who has garnered international recognition and secured $11.5 million dollars in grants in Connecticut, for her invention aimed at combating air pollution and improving respiratory health, warmly welcomed by Hon Dabiri-Erewa and her team.
During the visit, according to the statement released by the Commission, Dabiri-Erewa praised Eniola’s brilliance, resilience, and determination, describing her as beacon of hope and a true ambassador of Nigerian excellence.
She further emphasized the importance of nurturing young innovators and building stronger pathways for Nigerian talents to thrive globally.
According to her, “I want to inspire other Nigerian children to dream big, solve problems, and make a difference, as a Nigerian youth you can do anything and any problem you see has a solution is just up to you to find it,” she said.
Similarly, while visiting the Minister of Youth Development, Olawande who commended her brilliance and drive, noting that, “Eniola represents the future Nigeria must believe in.
“Her story is not just one of innovation but of resilience, vision, and hope. We must do more to create an environment where young Nigerians, whether at home or abroad, can thrive without limits. We are committed to amplifying such voices and nurturing talents like hers”, he stated.
Olawande reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders like NiDCOM to bridge the gap between Nigerian youth and government, encouraging more direct support and engagement with the younger generation.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa described Eniola as, “a shining star, a beacon of what is possible when young Nigerians are empowered,” and encouraged others to draw inspiration from her determination and global impact.
The strategic visit underscores a growing recognition of Nigerian youth in the diaspora as invaluable assets to national development, innovation, and global diplomacy.
Eniola Shokunbi is in Nigeria as Guest of the Raw Materials, Research and Development Council in Abuja.