The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has lauded the groundbreaking achievements of Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian-American, who has made waves in the scientific community with her innovative invention.
Shokunbi designed a low-cost air purifier priced at just $60, capable of removing 99 per cent of airborne viruses.
The invention, which began as a school science project, underwent rigorous testing by the University of Connecticut and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Its effectiveness has led to a $11.5 million grant from the Connecticut State Bond Commission to mass-produce and install the air purifiers in schools across the state.

Describing Shokunbi as “a shining example of the incredible potential of young Nigerians,” Dabiri-Erewa commended her for embodying the resilience, ingenuity, and excellence synonymous with the Nigerian spirit.
“Eniola Shokunbi has etched her name in the annals of science and medicine. Her invention will not only improve lives but also create jobs and offer innovative solutions to global healthcare challenges,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She expressed hope that Shokunbi’s achievement would inspire young Nigerians both at home and abroad, as well as youths worldwide, to dream big and pursue excellence.
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A fifth-grade student at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, Connecticut, Shokunbi’s journey began with a school science project aimed at addressing air quality challenges during pandemics.
What started as a simple classroom assignment has now evolved into a breakthrough innovation with international recognition and life-changing potential.
NiDCOM’s leader emphasised that Shokunbi’s success underscores the importance of nurturing young talent and providing platforms for creativity and innovation, urging other Nigerian youths to follow in her footsteps and reach for greatness.