Commander Matuwo Iseoluwani Olufokunbi has etched his name in history as the first Nigerian-American to qualify as a nuclear engineer under the U.S. Navy's esteemed Nuclear Propulsion Program. This remarkable achievement not only underscores his exceptional skills and dedication but also highlights the significant contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to the global community.
Born to Nigerian parents, Commander Olufokunbi's journey into the U.S. Navy began in January 2001 when he enlisted as an Electronic Technician. Demonstrating exceptional aptitude and ambition, he was selected for the Seaman to Admiral Program, a pathway that enables enlisted personnel to become commissioned officers. He graduated from Old Dominion University in May 2008 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Furthering his education, he completed the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program and earned a Master in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.
Naval Career
Commander Olufokunbi's naval career is distinguished by a series of pivotal roles:
USS TAYLOR (FFG 50): Served as an Electronic Technician.
USS SIMPSON (FFG 56): Held positions as Intelligence Officer, Electronic Warfare Officer, and Combat Information Center Officer.
USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69): Served as Reactor Electrical, Reactor Auxiliary, and Reactor Propulsion Division Officer.
USS CARTER HALL (LSD 50): Served as Combat Systems Officer.
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72): Served as Main Propulsion Assistant.
Ashore, he has contributed significantly in various capacities:
Commander, Navy Recruiting Command: Served as Nuclear Programs Officer.
Commander, Naval Surface Forces, Atlantic: Served as the Naval Surface Forces Expeditionary, Amphibious Warfare (AMW), and Mine Warfare (MIW) Warfighting Requirement and Assessment Lead.
In January 2025, Commander Olufokunbi made history by becoming the first Nigerian-American to qualify as a nuclear engineer under the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Propulsion Program. This accomplishment places him among an elite group, being the third Nigerian-born officer to command a U.S. Navy warship
In January 2025, Commander Olufokunbi assumed command of the USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), a significant milestone in his career. His leadership is expected to further enhance the ship's operational readiness and mission effectiveness.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout his distinguished career, Commander Olufokunbi has been honored with several military decorations, including:
Navy Commendation Medal: Awarded four times.
Navy Achievement Medal: Awarded three times.
These accolades reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence and service.
Commander Olufokunbi's journey from an enlisted Electronic Technician to a commanding officer and nuclear engineer serves as an inspiring narrative for the Nigerian diaspora. His story exemplifies the values of resilience, excellence, and dedication, encouraging young Nigerians worldwide to pursue their aspirations with determination and integrity.
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