Popular Nigerian social media activist Martin Vincent Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has pledged $50,000 to sponsor the education of an 18-year-old Nigerian inventor, Darlyton Ovwighosuotu, in China.
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Darlyton, who is popularly known online as Smartician, attracted VDM’s attention after showcasing his inventions on social media. The teenager has reportedly built several devices, including a replica of a Tesla Cybertruck, a working ATM, a wireless power bank and Bluetooth speakers, using everyday materials.
VDM said he discovered Darlyton’s work online in 2025 and was impressed by the young inventor’s creativity and determination despite having limited resources.
According to VDM, the decision to support Darlyton was influenced by his concern that many talented young Nigerians are unable to develop their abilities because they lack financial support.
The social media activist has now committed $50,000 from his personal funds to sponsor Darlyton’s university education in China. The young inventor has reportedly secured admission into a Chinese university and has also obtained his visa, with his expenses, including tuition and feeding allowances, covered under the sponsorship.
The development marks a significant change in Darlyton’s journey, which began with him creating technological projects despite limited access to sophisticated equipment and formal support.
VDM announced the scholarship on social media, expressing his happiness that Darlyton had secured both admission and a visa to study in China. The announcement attracted reactions from Nigerians and other social media users, many of whom praised the activist for supporting the young inventor.
Darlyton is expected to begin his studies in China in September 2026. VDM has also indicated that his support is intended to go beyond Darlyton, expressing the hope that the young inventor will one day extend similar assistance to other talented people.
The scholarship has consequently drawn attention to the importance of identifying and supporting young Nigerian innovators whose talents could contribute to technological development if given the right opportunities.
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