Nigerian Doctor Sends Egusi to Space with NASA Support

On July 31, 2025, a milestone in Nigeria’s scientific and cultural history was marked as egusi seeds sourced from Oyo State were launched into space aboard SpaceX’s Crew-11 mission. The seeds were selected and sent by Dr. Temidayo Oniosun, a globally respected space policy expert and native of Oke-Ogun in Oyo State.

The launch was part of the Seeds in Space project, an international initiative involving NASA-affiliated scientists, Jaguar Space LLC, and the Karman Project. Participants from across the globe were invited to choose culturally significant seeds to send into orbit. Representing Nigeria, Dr. Oniosun chose egusi — a melon seed that forms the base of one of the country’s most beloved soups — symbolizing both national identity and agricultural heritage.

“This isn’t just about science. It’s culture. It’s heritage. It’s home,” Dr. Oniosun said in a statement. “To represent Nigeria on a mission this monumental, with something as personal as egusi, means everything.”

The Oyo State Government celebrated the achievement on X, calling it a “blend of tradition and innovation” and highlighting its significance as the first time a native Nigerian agricultural product has been sent to the International Space Station. The state’s official statement, titled *From Okaka to Orbit*, paid tribute to Dr. Oniosun’s roots.

Upon return from space, the egusi seeds will be studied in partnership with plant biotechnologists at the University of Florida and researchers in Brazil. Scientists will examine how space travel affects their genetic structure, resilience, and viability — research that could have long-term implications for crop development and food security.

Dr. Oniosun’s contribution not only places Nigerian agriculture on the global scientific map but also proves that innovation can grow from deeply rooted cultural soil — and soar.