Owolabi Salis set to make history: To become first Nigerian astronaut

Eminent U.S.-based lawyer and politician, Barrister Owolabi Salis, is on the verge of setting an extraordinary record as the first Nigerian to travel into space beyond the Kármán line.

The take-off, which is expected to occur soon, remains undisclosed for now due to strategic security reasons, as stated by the Blue Origin Space Mission.

It is worth recalling that last year, this distinguished Nigerian citizen, scholar, and author made history as the first Black African to visit both the Arctic and Antarctic regions—accomplishing this incredible feat within a single season.

According to a press release from Blue Origin, Salis will be journeying into space alongside other globally recognized personalities such as Allie Kuehnor, Carl Kuerhnour, Leland Larson, Freddie Rescignor Jr., and Jim Sitkin.

Salis, a highly esteemed figure in American society, expressed his excitement:
“The prospect that I will be part of this historic space adventure brings me one of the greatest excitements I could ever imagine.”

“This is not just an adventure, but the adventure of all adventures. Beyond the thrill, I look forward to this epic journey with joyous trepidation—to behold the mystery of the universe in its immeasurable, breathtaking grandeur and immensity. It is a medium through which I hope to appreciate the limitless omnipotence of the Supreme Creator of all things; to fear Him and draw nearer to Him than ever before. I see this experience, more than anything else, as an opportunity for profound spiritual awakening, making me more sober and closer to the Soul Maker—the Creator of life who made all things.”

“Yes, the fun is there, the thrill—of course—but above all, this journey is a humbling, sobering, yet illuminating spiritual encounter with the Supreme Being of all creation.”

When asked whether he feels special being the first Nigerian ever slated for such an experience, he replied:
“I don’t in any way feel special. If anything, I only count myself privileged. People have been hailing me with compliments like ‘African Ambassador’ or ‘Nigerian Ambassador.’ Well, if they see it that way, so be it.”

“It reminds me of the time I traveled to the North and South Poles, and people called me a history maker. Some said I was the first Nigerian; others claimed I was the first Black African to achieve that feat. Whatever the case, it was, for me, primarily an adventure in knowledge—to broaden my understanding of nature’s diversity, and to grasp the immense mystery of the Creator and the profound depths of the universe.”

When asked to compare his polar expedition with the upcoming space mission, Salis responded:
“Both are exciting, but space is something else—it’s simply out of this world. The difference is clear. These are two entirely different realms. But space promises an entirely novel experience. I just can’t wait for the grand take-off.”

According to the Blue Origin press release:
“Owolabi Salis is an attorney and financial consultant. He is the author of Equitocracy, which presents a vision for democracy that prioritizes equity among diverse groups. Owolabi is also a key member of The Soul Maker Ministry, which preaches diversity in recognition of the universe’s diverse nature. He is dedicating this mission to victims of discrimination and civil rights violations.”