Silas Adekunle, a Nigerian-born robotics engineer and entrepreneur, has earned global acclaim as one of the most innovative minds in robotics, widely recognized as the world’s highest-paid robotics engineer. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Adekunle showed an early passion for technology that, combined with his extraordinary talent, led him to transform the gaming and tech worlds through robotics.
At just 26 years old, Silas made history by developing MekaMon, the world’s first intelligent gaming robot. MekaMon is a four-legged robot that integrates robotics with augmented reality, creating an immersive and interactive battle arena controlled via smartphone app. This innovative fusion allows players to control robots engaging in combat in both physical and virtual dimensions, bringing a new dimension to gaming entertainment.
Silas founded Reach Robotics in 2013 during his early 20s. The UK-based startup developed MekaMon, which saw remarkable success by selling over 500 units and generating $7.5 million. Recognizing the revolutionary potential of MekaMon, Apple Inc. signed an exclusive deal to distribute the robot in their stores across the United States and Britain in 2018, a groundbreaking first for gaming robots. This partnership not only accelerated the robot’s reach but also cemented Silas Adekunle’s status as a pioneering force in robotics innovation.
Adekunle’s educational background includes a first-class degree in Robotics from the University of the West of England, Bristol, and an honorary Doctor of Technology degree that acknowledges his contributions to science and technology. Beyond his inventions, Silas’s vision extends into education and empowerment. He was a team leader of the Robotics in Schools program, aimed at making STEM education more exciting and accessible to youth, reflecting his commitment to inspiring the next generation of African technologists and innovators.
Despite Reach Robotics’ closure in 2019 due to challenges in the consumer robotics sector, Silas has continued to innovate. He founded Awarri, a company focused on developing AI and robotics education ecosystems across Africa to nurture local talents. Furthermore, he co-founded R.I., a company that helps developers create secure cloud solutions for monitoring and controlling robots and IoT devices industrially.
Silas’s innovation and entrepreneurial spirit have earned him numerous accolades. He was included in Forbes Europe’s 30 Under 30 Technology list in 2018 and named as one of the Financial Times’ Top 100 Minority Ethnic Leaders in Technology. His groundbreaking work and global success serve as a beacon for African youths aspiring to transform their communities through technology.
Silas Adekunle’s journey from a curious Nigerian teenager to a global robotics pioneer epitomizes how African talents can rival and lead in high-tech fields worldwide when given opportunities and support.
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