Nigerian-born U.S.-based lawyer-turned-astronaut, Salis Owolabi, has made history as the first Nigerian to journey into space, marking a monumental achievement that blends scientific exploration with deep personal transformation.
Speaking on this week’s edition of the Mic on Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, Owolabi described his voyage as more than a scientific feat, emphasizing that it was a spiritual expedition, serving as a personal quest for answers about existence, divinity, and human purpose.
“My journey to space was very spiritual. My journey was a spiritual research, and I’ve gotten my answers.”
While his journey may have been personal, astronaut Owolabi believes space holds answers for the world’s most powerful and problematic leaders. The expedition, he revealed, cost nearly $2 million and was self-funded to finance his trip.
“I want to suggest that all world leaders who are fighting and causing trouble should be sent to space and live there for one day. It’s a very humbling place. I saved for my space exploration… I have to find a way of selling one of my properties.”
Meanwhile, Astronaut Owolabi also used the platform to challenge African and Nigerian leaders to stop waiting for handouts in the realm of science and technology. While pushing for aggressive innovation and knowledge acquisition, he called on Nigerian foreign embassies to be proactive in identifying global opportunities and investing in research. African leaders should not sit down and expect people (developed nations) to give them technology. They have to buy or steal it.”
On national politics, Owolabi did not hold back. A former governorship candidate under the Alliance for Democracy in Lagos, he alleged electoral malpractice and expressed frustration with Nigeria’s democratic process. He also criticized the imposition of candidates and called for genuine democratic reforms, warning against a one-party system and endorsing the need for transparent processes that give every Nigerian a fair shot. The election results are written. There is no free and fair contest in Nigeria. The democratic system in Nigeria has to change. They need to start practicing democracy that will not allow a one-party state or the imposition of candidates.”
As for the future, Owolabi still holds hope. He acknowledged the possibility of an Igbo presidency but cautioned that ethnic discrimination remains a major barrier. He therefore urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerian leaders to focus on the less privileged and prioritize grassroots governance while investing heavily in technological advancement.
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