The Nigerian scientist makes a historic turning point in space agriculture

For the first time in history, Nigeria seeds are heading towards space, marking a milestone for the country and the African continent. The seeds of Egusi, widely known for their nutritional value and the cultural importance in the cuisine of West Africa, will be launched aboard the NASA crew mission at the International Space Station (ISS) on July 31, 2025.

The initiative is led by Nigerian space scientists and federal university of technology, Akure pupil (Futa), Teumayo Onosun. The mission aims to examine the potential of egusi seeds for use in long -lasting human spatial missions, in particular their nutritional resilience and adaptability in space environments.

The seeds, coming from the State of Oyo, will be held at 12:09 EdT (5:09 pm Nigerian weather) from Cape Canaveral, Florida, in collaboration with the Karman and Jaguar Space LLC project – two organizations engaged in research on global space and innovation.

“This is the first time that Nigeria seeds will go to space,” Ooniosun announced on social media. “It is not just a scientific mission: it is a declaration on the future of African crops in the exploration of space.”

The astronaut of NASA and the Lieutenant Commander of the United States Navy Jonny Kim will manage the transfer of the payload that involves the seeds of aegusi and other scientific materials once the dragon spatial of the crew-11 at the ISS.

Upon returning to Earth, the seeds will suffer intensive tests led by Dr. Wagner Vendrame, a renowned professor at the University of Florida. The post-pace analysis will include in vitro germination, spectral imaging, measurement of the breathing rate and molecular studies to observe any genetic or physiological changes caused by exposure to space. The additional gene sequencing will be conducted by collaborators in Brazil.

According to Onosun, the project extends well beyond agriculture. “This research explores food safety, adaptability and scientific independence for Africa in future space missions. If Egusi proves to be practicable in space, it could open the way to include other indigenous crops in extraterrestrial agriculture.”

The development was proudly accepted by the academic community in Nigeria. Professor Adenike Oladiji, deputy chancellor of Futa, greeted the mission as a symbol of African excellence. “This is more than a space experiment; reflects the role of our institution in feeding minds that now contribute to global scientific borders”.

Cempeyo Onosun obtained a degree in Meteorology near Futa, a master’s degree in satellite questions from the University of Strathclyde and a doctorate of research. from the University of Delaware. He was a coherent supporter of African participation in space science and has received numerous international awards, including the Emerging Space Leadership Award prize from the International Astronautical Federation in 2016.

With this mission, Nigeria is making history, not only in space science, but in redefining the role of African innovation in global exploration and sustainability.