- A 62-year-old Nigerian man, Owolabi Salis has become the first Nigerian-born person to travel to space
- The trip, which was financed on a private basis, has been recognized by the National Space Research and Development Agency.
- The agency also stated that there is an increasing interest among Nigerian citizens in exploring space.
zaia news.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of experience in business journalism, with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.
The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has recognized Owolabi Salis as the first Nigerian citizen to travel to space.
In June 2025, Salis was among the six travelers aboard Blue Origin's NS-33 flight, which reached suborbital space and crossed the Kármán line—the officially recognized edge of space.
NASRDA honors Nigeria's initial space traveler
In a statement issued by Felix Ale, the Media and Corporate Communications Director of NASRDA, Salis was commended for his groundbreaking accomplishment.
Ale, in a statement, mentioned that Salis' space journey was funded on his own.
He noted:
This achievement highlights the growing Nigerian engagement in international scientific, exploration, tourism, and commercial space activities, while also indicating a rising trend of private sector participation in Nigeria's space initiatives.
This milestone creates fresh opportunities for Nigeria's involvement in space endeavors and boosts the country's standing globally.
As reported by Punch, NASRDA states that Chief Salis's successful space mission is one of several routes for Nigerian involvement in space, and it supports the agency's efforts to expand opportunities for citizens to engage in space exploration.
Ale revealed that the agency was informed about the flight via its partner organization, the Space Research and Exploration Agency, prior to the mission.
He added:
"Although Chief Salis's mission received private financing, NASRDA's joint project with SERA for a future Blue Origin flight is still proceeding as planned.
His achievement highlights the growing prospects accessible to Nigerians in the aerospace industry,
NASRDA mentioned that chances to travel to space will require selecting Nigerian citizens aged 18 and older based on their qualifications for astronaut training and research activities.
It will also enable the public to provide feedback on the research areas that should be given priority.
Ale concluded:
His success marks a pivotal point for Nigeria, showcasing the collaboration between private individuals and government-driven projects in advancing the frontiers of space exploration.
Who is Owolabi Salis?
Owolabi Salis is a legal professional, financial expert, and political figure hailing from Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria.
He came into the world on March 1, 1963, and completed his studies at Ahmadu Bello University located in Zaria, Nigeria.
He is a certified accountant and authorized lawyer in both Nigeria and the United States, according to BusinessDay.
Salis has also been actively involved in Lagos politics for many years, running in gubernatorial elections.
A wealthy entrepreneur departs from Earth, ventures into space
Earlier, zaia news.ngreported that the UK's billionaire and Virgin Atlantic's owner, Richard Branson, has successfully reached space along with four other crew members.
Branson has always longed to travel to space, and this dream became a reality just hours ago when he posted his first video from there.
Numerous individuals were astonished by the space footage, with some claiming it highlights the incredible strength of human determination.