Commander Matuwo Iseoluwani Olufokunbi has made history as the first Nigerian-American to qualify as a nuclear engineer under the U.S. Navy’s prestigious Nuclear Propulsion Program. His achievement not only reflects his dedication and expertise but also highlights the growing impact of Nigerians in the diaspora.
Born to Nigerian parents, Commander Olufokunbi began his Navy career in January 2001 as an Electronic Technician. He was later selected for the Seaman to Admiral Program, which enables enlisted personnel to become commissioned officers. He earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from Old Dominion University in 2008, and later completed both the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program and a Master’s in Engineering Management from the same institution.
He is now the third Nigerian-born officer to command a U.S. Navy warship, following Captain Kelechi Ndukwe and Captain Frank Okata.
The Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, congratulated Commander Olufokunbi, describing his accomplishment as a testament to the resilience, excellence, and determination of Nigerians globally.
We salute you, Matuwo!