From Roadside Mechanic to Engineering Graduate: The Inspiring Journey of Popoola Omokehinde Esther

•Reveal How Engr. Rotimi Iliasu Suleiman change her story

In the quiet town of Omu-Aran, Kwara State, a young girl named Popoola Omokehinde Esther began her journey one that would eventually inspire countless others across Nigeria. At just 23, Esther’s transformation from a roadside mechanic to a graduate of mechanical engineering is not just a personal victory, but a powerful reminder that destiny often meets those who dare to dream.

Growing up in a humble home, Esther knew that success would not come easy. As a teenager, she moved to Lagos, where she worked as a roadside mechanic, a field heavily dominated by men but she was undeterred. With every bolt tightened, every screw driven in and every engine repaired, she wasn’t just earning a living, she was building her future, one grease-stained day at a time.

And then, a life-changing moment arrived.

While working in Lagos, Esther met Engr. Rotimi Suleiman Iliasu, the then Commissioner for Works and Transport in Kwara State and the ‘Taiyese of Jebba Land. What began as a casual encounter became a turning point in her life. Engr. Suleiman saw an extraordinary passion, resilience, and a hunger for growth in the young mechanic.

He didn’t just offer words of encouragement, he took action.

Engr. Suleiman personally sponsored Esther’s education, giving her the opportunity to study Mechanical Engineering and follow her dreams professionally. His support extended beyond tuition fees, he also stood by her family, offering help and guidance during difficult times.

Today, Esther is no longer a roadside mechanic, she is a proud mechanical engineering graduate.
Her story is not just about education or career; it’s about how one act of kindness can alter the course of a life forever.

Esther speaks of Engr. Suleiman with heartfelt admiration:
“There were so many people that made a lot of promises when my video went viral but none of them showed up afterwards. It was when BBC recorded and posted my video, that Engr. Rotimi Suleiman Iliasu reached out to me and came down to Lagos to look for me.

Engineer asked me if I wanted to further my Education and I said yes, so he paid for my WAEC fees, JAMB fees and I got admitted into Kwara State Polytechnic.
He paid my tuition fees all through my academic years, got me accommodation, sent me feeding and welfare allowance and not once did he complained.
Anytime i needed something and reached out to him, he would always provide it for me. He is a rare human being.”

Esther also said that in 2020, Engr. Rotimi Suleiman Iliasu bought two smartphones for her and her Boss where she was an apprentice and also got her another phone in 2023.

“As we speak, I have only met Engr. Rotimi twice in my life, when he came to Lagos to see me and when my dad brought me to Kwara State in 2021.
Only Almighty Allah can reward Engineer for his generosity in my life.” She prayed.

“Engr. Rotimi Iliasu Suleiman is a rare human being.” Esther continued “He saw potentials in me when the world saw a roadside mechanic. He gave me a chance and because of him, my life and my family’s life has changed.”

With deep emotions, she prayed to Almighty Allah on his behalf:
“May Allah grant him success in all his aspirations. People like him are truly rare, and the world needs more of such hearts. I pray that his dreams come true and that he continues to be a source of hope for many others.”

Today, Esther holds a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering with an Upper Credit. The road ahead is looking brighter for her chosen career.

Engr. Suleiman’s story is one of leadership, compassion and vision. Esther’s journey is one of courage, gratitude, and transformation. Together, they remind us that true impact lies not just in titles held, but in lives touched.