From entertainment to the sciences and academia, Nigerians are etching their names in gold across the globe and Nigerian-born lawyer and financial consultant Owolabi Salis is no exception.

Excitement swept through Nigeria as the news of Salis joining Blue Origin on a journey to space alongside other space tourists made headlines on Tuesday.

On June 29, Salis embarked on a historic flight alongside Allie Kuehner, Carl Kuehner, Leland Larson, Freddie Rescigno Jr and Jim Sitkin for a ten-minute flight into space.

Prior to the spaceship’s ascent beyond the earth’s atmosphere, Salis had emphasised the exceeding nature of the adventure.

“This mission is more than just a trip into space, it’s a spiritual journey, a call to inspire future generations,” he said.

He also expressed hope that his accomplishment would inspire and motivate many Nigerian youths to explore science, technology, and space travel.

Who is Owolabi Salis?

The US-based lawyer who hails from Ikorodu in Lagos State is a man of many hats.

The Ikorodu native holds dual qualifications as an attorney and a chartered accountant, with professional licences in both the United States and Nigeria.

He is also the author of Equitocracy, a book that presents a vision for democracy that prioritizes equity among diverse groups. In addition to this, Salis is a spiritual leader with The Soul Maker Ministry, which preaches diversity given the diverse nature of the universe.

Among his many hats is his commitment and advocacy towards ensuring victims of discrimination and civil rights violations get justice.

In 2003 and 2007, Salis vied for the PDP’s gubernatorial ticket, but lost the election. He also ran under the Action Party of Nigeria in 2007.

Unwilling to abandon his dreams of ruling Lagos State as governor, Salis contested in Alliance for Democracy’s banner during the 2019 elections, but lost.

His journey and achievements testify to the spirit of excellence in Nigerians both at home and abroad.