The Journey of a Nigerian Pioneer in Space
Owolabi Salis, the first Nigerian to travel into space, has embarked on an extraordinary journey that transcends the boundaries of science and spirituality. A lawyer, researcher, and spiritual thinker, Salis reflects on his motivations, experiences, and the profound questions about life and existence that have shaped his path.
Spiritual Motivation and Cosmic Reflections
Salis describes his trip as a spiritual journey, driven by a deep curiosity about the mysteries of life and the universe. He refers to Earth as “Planet 3,” emphasizing its unique position in the cosmos. The planet’s suspension around the sun at a speed of 100,000 km per hour fascinates him, prompting philosophical inquiries about the soul and its connection to the body.
He explores the concept that the soul is the foundation of the body, suggesting that when the soul departs, the body ceases to grow. This leads to deeper questions: Where does the soul go after leaving the body? What is the origin of the soul? These reflections are not just academic; they are deeply personal and rooted in his spiritual beliefs.
Discoveries and Unanswered Questions
During his trip, Salis claims to have found some hypotheses that provide partial answers to these questions. However, he chooses to keep them private, stating that he wants to strengthen his arguments before sharing them. His findings, while not conclusive, highlight the complexity of the relationship between the soul and the physical world.
Joining the NS-33 Crew
Salis joined the NS-33 crew of Blue Origin through a combination of determination and financial investment. Living in New York, he sent a letter expressing his interest in researching spiritualism and its importance to humanity. After undergoing training, which lasted about a week and was highly intensive, he received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and signed numerous health waivers.
Despite the risks involved, Salis remained confident throughout the process. He recalls the challenges faced during the launch, including weather-related delays, but his faith in the mission never wavered. He believes that the experience was worth the effort, even if it came with a hefty price tag—estimated to be around $2 million.
A History of Exploration
Salis has made history not only as the first Nigerian in space but also as a pioneer in other extreme environments. He has visited both the North and South Poles, traveled to Antarctica, and even experienced conditions similar to those on Mars. These adventures, he says, are part of a broader pilgrimage to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the natural world.
The Experience of Weightlessness
During his three minutes of weightlessness, Salis described the sensation as both exhilarating and humbling. He felt like a bird, floating freely in space, surrounded by the vastness of the universe. This experience reinforced his belief in the spiritual significance of the cosmos and the presence of a higher power.
Future Adventures and Global Impact
Looking ahead, Salis plans to explore more islands, particularly those in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, which he considers spiritually significant. He envisions a future where space travel becomes more accessible, allowing more people, including Nigerians, to experience the wonders of the universe.
A Voice for Change
Beyond his travels, Salis is a passionate advocate for social justice. As a lawyer, he has defended the rights of the underprivileged and spoken out against discrimination. His political aspirations, including multiple runs for governor of Lagos State, reflect his commitment to public service and reform.
The Path Forward
Salis envisions a future where Nigeria embraces a more equitable system of governance, advocating for “Equitocracy” as a solution to the challenges of democracy. He emphasizes the importance of local police and grassroots governance, drawing parallels with the stability seen in the United States.
In conclusion, Owolabi Salis’s journey into space is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the power of curiosity, faith, and the pursuit of knowledge. His story continues to inspire and challenge the world to think beyond the confines of Earth and explore the infinite possibilities of the universe.
