The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has lauded Chief Owolabi Salis’s historic space mission as a powerful demonstration of Nigerians’ keen interest in participating in scientific, exploratory, tourism, and commercial space activities.
In a congratulatory message signed by Dr. Felix Ale, NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, the space agency highlighted Chief Salis’s achievement as a significant opening for increased private sector engagement in Nigeria’s space program.
Chief Owolabi Salis holds the distinction of being the first person of Nigerian birth to travel to space. His privately funded mission has not only garnered substantial international attention for Nigeria’s space capabilities but also firmly positioned the nation among countries whose citizens are actively contributing to space endeavors.
“Chief Salis’s successful mission represents one pathway for Nigerian space participation. His achievement complements NASRDA’s ongoing efforts to expand access to space exploration for Nigerian citizens,” the message stated.
NASRDA confirmed that it received notification of Chief Salis’s mission through its partner organization, Space Research and Exploration Agency (SERA), prior to the flight, emphasizing that his success showcases the growing opportunities available to Nigerians in the space sector.
However, NASRDA also took the opportunity to reiterate that the NASRDA-SERA collaborative mission, first announced in June 2024, remains on track for an upcoming Blue Origin flight. This program offers a distinct pathway, aiming to provide broader Nigerian participation through an open competition.
The collaborative mission will enable Nigerian citizens to participate in astronaut selection and contribute to the development of research proposals. Eligibility for this program extends to all Nigerian citizens aged 18 and above, with transparent, merit-based selection criteria. Research priorities for the NASRDA-SERA mission will also be determined through public input from Nigerian citizens, ensuring the mission addresses nationally identified priorities.
The application portal for the NASRDA-SERA program is expected to open in the coming weeks, with detailed application procedures to be announced before its activation.
NASRDA celebrated Chief Salis’s contribution to raising awareness about space exploration opportunities for Nigerians, noting that his private investment exemplifies the practical commitment of Nigerian citizens to advancing national space participation. His achievement, according to NASRDA, marks a defining moment for Nigeria’s space ambitions, solidifying the nation’s position as an active participant in the global space economy with both private citizens and government programs actively pursuing space exploration.