A celebrated American sculptor, Steve N. Barber, has announced plans to build a monumental sculpture in honour of Nigerian-born astronaut and lawyer, Owolabi Salis, who recently became the first Nigerian to travel beyond the Kármán line into space.
Barber, known globally for his space-themed memorials, said the monument would serve as a lasting tribute not just to Salis’ journey into space but to his impact on Nigeria’s global image.
“This monument will be a global tribute to a man who not only broke new ground as a Nigerian in space but also raised Nigeria’s profile in international scientific and aerospace circles,” he said.
The structure is being designed in California and is expected to be completed by 4 July 2026. Once unveiled, it will be shipped to Salis’ hometown of Ikorodu in Lagos State.
Barber revealed that the sculpture would carry engraved inspirational quotes and be built to last at least 1,000 years. He said he was reaching out to the Nigerian government, Jeff Bezos, and private sponsors for support.
“This isn’t just about honouring one man,” he added. “It’s about inspiring millions.”
Salis, a New York-based attorney and founder of Salis Law, made history earlier this year as the first Nigerian to reach space. Since his return, he has been widely celebrated by Nigerians at home and abroad.
“People walk up to me in restaurants and hotels, give me hugs, and ask for photographs. It’s been overwhelming,” Salis said.
He also pointed out how rare space travel is.
“Only about 720 people in history have ever gone to space,” he said. “When you think about that compared to over 117 billion people who have lived on Earth, it puts the whole thing in perspective.”
Apart from his space mission, Salis also became the first Black African to visit both the Arctic and Antarctic within the same season a feat he accomplished between January and July 2024.
