Chief Owolabi Salis, a prominent Nigerian lawyer and financial consultant based in the United States, is set to make history as the first Nigerian to cross the Kármán line — the internationally recognized boundary of space. This milestone will be achieved aboard a mission launched by Blue Origin, the American aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos.
The development was confirmed in an official press release issued by Blue Origin, which also announced the list of other distinguished passengers selected for the upcoming suborbital flight. Salis will be joined by notable global participants including Allie Kuehnor, Carl Kuerhnour, Leland Larson, Freddie Rescignor Jr., and Jim Sitkin.
Chief Salis expressed his excitement about the mission, describing it as a deeply personal and spiritual experience, far beyond mere adventure. In a statement quoted in the release, he said:
“This is not just an adventure, but the adventure of all adventures. Beyond the thrill, I anticipate this epic journey with joyous trepidation, eager to witness the vast mysteries of the universe in all their breathtaking grandeur.
It offers me a chance to reflect on the limitless power of the Supreme Creator — to revere Him and draw closer than ever before. For me, this experience carries profound spiritual weight, promising a transformative awakening that brings me closer to the Source of life, the Maker of souls.”
This upcoming journey marks yet another pioneering feat by Salis, who in the previous year made international headlines as the first Black African to visit both the Arctic and Antarctic in the same season — a rare achievement that showcased his adventurous spirit and commitment to exploration.
When asked about how he felt being the first Nigerian to be selected for space travel, Salis responded with humility:
“I don’t feel special in any way; I only consider myself privileged. People have called me things like ‘African Ambassador’ or ‘Nigerian Ambassador.’ If that’s how they see it, that’s fine. But for me, this is a collective representation — not just about me as a person.”
In addition to his legal and financial career, Chief Salis is also an accomplished author. He wrote Equitocracy, a book that outlines a democratic model designed to ensure inclusive governance and equitable representation for all groups in society.
As Blue Origin prepares for the launch, Salis’s participation not only underscores Nigeria’s growing presence in global innovation and science but also positions him as a symbol of African excellence on a global stage.