During an interview with Weekend Trust, 19-year-old Khalifa Aminu from Kano shared details about his invention—a device designed to identify homemade explosives (IEDs) as well as underground solid minerals within a single second. Additionally, he revealed plans for developing another tool aimed at combating banditry, along with several more innovations he intends to unveil soon.
Share with us about your familial origins.
I was born at the Gobirawa Quarters of Dala Local Government Area of Kano State. I started inventing machines from my kindergarten age. I am popularly referred to as the inventor of blinds’ spectacles.
What educational credentials do you possess at this point?
I attended Abba Naliti Primary School and proceeded to Government Secondary School, Gwammaja I. I started senior secondary there but couldn’t complete it due to economic realities. Since then, I have been inventing a lot of things, including a radio transmitter.
Back then, the government of Kano State assured me that they would cover my tuition costs so I could finish high school. The governor of Kano even met with me personally; during our conversation, he praised my innovative spirit and gave his word on several commitments. However, these pledges went unfulfilled because they were preoccupied with various tribunals. Later still, an official from the Governor’s Office enrolled me at a school located near Airport Road in Kano. Unfortunately, financial burdens prevented me from finishing this program either. Eventually, someone else helped facilitate my enrollment in an external institution where I completed my Secondary School Certificate Examination to conclude my secondary education journey.
When did you begin working on these inventions?
I’m unable to pinpoint the exact age when I began these activities; they’ve simply been part of my life since as far back as I remember.
Others will likely want to know where you acquired this knowledge of these innovations, seeing as you’ve only recently finished your secondary schooling.
To be honest, I started these things even before I started going to school. I commit most of my time researching new things. For anything I want to create, I usually dedicate a lot of my time to understanding how it is made until I can do it myself. I didn’t study anything in school; but now, I am trying to study it. Even when I invented glasses that could help blind people detect objects in front of them, I wasn’t studying anything in school, I only researched it myself.
What tools do you utilize for your research?
Owing to the recent progress in information technology, my study primarily revolves around artificial intelligence (AI) as well as search engines such as Google, YouTube, and more.
Your name became very popular, particularly on social media platforms after you created the glasses for visually impaired individuals. Were these your initial inventions?
Number 1: Prior to those, I created numerous devices including a radio transmitter, machinery designed for agricultural use, an instrument to gauge temperatures, and equipment capable of detecting fires and smoke. These smaller innovations were my starting point. Following these achievements, I went on to develop aids similar to special eyewear intended for individuals who are visually impaired.
What is the mechanism behind how the glasses function?
These spectacles, designed for those who have visual impairments, can be worn like regular glasses. The key distinction lies in the presence of sensors embedded within these frames which assist individuals who are blind in detecting obstacles ahead. This detection triggers auditory alerts until the user halts. Should the individual continue moving forward without stopping, the device continuously emits sounds to prevent collision with the detected obstacle.
Are there any additional projects you’re presently involved with?
While there are numerous inventions out there, I plan to unveil mine incrementally. Currently, I’ve developed a device capable of detecting both homemade bombs—improvised explosive devices (IEDs)—and valuable resources buried beneath the earth’s surface.
How does it work?
This is the first machine of its kind invented in Nigeria that people are talking about now. It is used to detect IEDs like bombs buried underground or solid minerals like gold, all in less than a second.
What truly motivated you to create this detection device?
The primary motivation driving me is the potential of using technology to address the pervasive insecurity plaguing our nation, particularly at this time. Additionally, I am concerned about the challenges faced by small-scale solid mineral miners who struggle with costly equipment. These miners typically have to import machines designed to locate mining sites, which come with hefty price tags making acquisition nearly impossible. A standard device often ranges from three to five million naira. However, I believe I can develop a more budget-friendly alternative capable of performing the same task—mineral detection—in approximately one second.
What is the current stage of completion for the project?
It has already been finished. I’ve even sampled it, and it yielded the expected outcome.
Besides these, what additional inventions would you like to create in the future?
There are numerous examples, such as radio transmitters and various other gadgets designed to provide relief and improve people’s daily experiences. My primary drive is to continuously create inventions that make life easier for others. Additionally, I’m involved in developing technologies aimed at combating the security challenges we face, particularly focusing on reducing incidents like banditry and kidnappings. This new tech would complicate efforts for these groups to coordinate through communication devices or carry out their activities as easily as before. In my view, technological advancements offer some of the most effective solutions to tackle issues related to public safety.
How do you manage to allocate time for these projects along with household tasks or outings?
I feel fortunate to have a nurturing and empathetic family who allowed me uninterrupted time for my endeavors, particularly during this current project. They provided me with a secure environment where I could conduct my research and develop innovations. Often, I dedicate entire nights to exploring new information. You’ll frequently find me engrossed in reading and writing, meticulously piecing together ideas and concepts.
Do you have a dedicated space at home exclusively for your research?
Certainly, this space is not located within my home; instead, someone has provided me with an office where I conduct all my activities and store my equipment.
Do you have a team you work with or you work alone?
Since I started, I have been doing everything all alone. Even if I need counselling, I usually use the internet, especially search engines and AI; and they have been of great benefit to me.
Do you want to further your studies? And what course would you like to read?
Absolutely. If I have the opportunity to return to school, I would like to study Mechatronic Engineering since it aligns closely with my current activities and future aspirations.
Are there any challenges you face, either at home or within society?
Certainly, every endeavor comes with its own set of obstacles. The most significant hurdle for me is acquiring the necessary tools. With all the right equipment at hand, I am confident that I would create numerous innovations. I look forward to getting these tools so that, ideally, my achievements can exceed expectations.
And what about when you’re at home; don’t they consider your activities a waste of time?
I’m not facing that challenge; actually, they provide me with all the support I require.
What accomplishments have you noted up until now?
Glory to God, I have been honored with various accolades, particularly from corporate entities, which fills me with pride. Just earlier this week, I traveled to Abuja where I sought guidance and mentoring aimed at enhancing my skills and exploring methods to scale up production for broader distribution.
What advice do you want to share with your peers?
The top recommendation I have for my peers is to display their abilities. They ought not to conceal or overlook their gifts.
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