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Who Is the First Nigerian to Travel to Space?

The dream of seeing a Nigerian in space has long captured the national imagination. Since launching its first satellite in 2003, Nigeria has been steadily building its space program, with ambitions of sending an astronaut into orbit. But while no Nigerian-born citizen has yet made that journey, one man with deep ancestral ties to Nigeria already etched his name into history: Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr.
Bernard Harris Jr.: A Pioneer Among the Stars
Born on June 26, 1956, in Temple, Texas, USA, Bernard Harris Jr. grew up with a fascination for science and space exploration. He pursued medicine, earning a degree from the University of Texas and later specializing in internal medicine and aerospace medicine. His brilliance, discipline, and vision eventually led him to NASA, where he trained as a flight surgeon and later became a mission specialist.
On February 9, 1995, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-63 mission), Harris made history by becoming the first African-American to perform a spacewalk. Clad in a NASA spacesuit, tethered to the shuttle, he floated 250 miles above Earth — a moment that not only marked a breakthrough for African-Americans in space exploration but also carried symbolic weight for Nigerians, given his African heritage and connection to the country.
His Nigerian Roots
Though born in the United States, Harris has Nigerian ancestry through his family’s heritage, a fact that has made many Nigerians embrace his achievement as part of their own. For decades, his success has been celebrated as evidence of African excellence in a field where representation has been historically limited.
Beyond Space: Medicine, Business, and Mentorship
Harris’s story did not end in orbit. After leaving NASA, he transitioned into medicine, research, and business leadership. He founded The Harris Foundation, which promotes STEM education for young people, particularly minorities. His career embodies the blend of science, innovation, and service that space pioneers often represent.
Nigeria’s Space Ambitions
Back home, Nigeria continues to pursue its dream of manned space travel. The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has launched multiple satellites — NigeriaSat-1 (2003), NigeriaSat-2, and NigeriaSat-X (2011) — and has discussed astronaut training with international partners. Though earlier promises set 2015 and 2020 as targets, the latest projections point toward the 2030s for Nigeria’s first indigenous astronaut.
Why His Story Matters
Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. represents more than personal achievement; he embodies the possibilities that come when talent, opportunity, and heritage intersect. For Nigerians, his spacewalk is both an inspiration and a reminder that the journey toward seeing a Nigerian citizen in orbit is not a question of if, but when.
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Davido says he almost quit music before hit collab with Omah Lay

Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that he considered stepping away from music before the release of his smash hit “With You” featuring Omah Lay.
In a recent interview making rounds on social media, the 14-year music veteran admitted he was on the verge of bowing out of the industry until the unexpected success of the record reignited his drive.
“We thank God. Thirteen or 14 years after, for me to have this kind of song… people have this kind of hit at the beginning or middle of their career. Me, that was even getting ready to bow out, then God gave me this kind of song. He definitely added more life to it,” Davido said.
The track, which appears on his latest 5ive album, has gone on to become the most streamed Nigerian song of 2025 on Spotify. It also bagged a nomination for “Song of the Year” at the 2025 AFRIMA Awards, topped the Official Nigeria Top 100, and broke into the top 5 Afrobeats songs on Billboard US.
The success of With You marks yet another career-defining moment for Davido, whose consistency and longevity continue to cement his place among Afrobeats’ global heavyweights.
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Ayra Starr hits 3 billion streams on Spotify, joins Afrobeats elite

Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has officially crossed 3 billion streams across all credits on Spotify, marking a new milestone in her fast-rising career.
At just 22, Ayra Starr has carved her place among Afrobeats’ global heavyweights, joining the ranks of Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, and Tems who have each surpassed the multi-billion streaming benchmark.
The achievement underscores her meteoric rise in a relatively short span, with hit singles like Rush, Bloody Samaritan, and Commas driving her international reach. Her consistency and global presence have made her one of the leading female voices in the genre.
Ayra Starr’s growth comes as Afrobeats continues to gain ground worldwide. Wizkid currently leads the continent with over 9 billion streams, Burna Boy follows with 8.5 billion, while Rema’s global hit Calm Down pushed him past 3 billion. Tems broke barriers as the first Nigerian female artist to cross the mark, with Davido maintaining his stronghold in the streaming era.
For Ayra Starr, this milestone is only the beginning. With a growing international fanbase and a string of collaborations under her belt, the “Sabi Girl” looks poised to push Afrobeats even further onto the global stage.
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News
15 Most Talented Nigerian Gospel Musicians

Nigeria’s gospel music industry is one of the most vibrant in the world, producing voices that inspire, uplift, and cross cultural and international borders. From timeless worship leaders to new-generation voices redefining sound, here are 15 of the most talented Nigerian gospel musicians making history today.
1. Sinach
Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, popularly known as Sinach, is one of Africa’s biggest gospel exports. Her global hit “Way Maker” has been translated into multiple languages and sung in churches across continents. With over three decades of ministry, Sinach remains a pioneer in contemporary gospel worship.
2. Nathaniel Bassey
Few artists have impacted modern Nigerian worship like Nathaniel Bassey. Famous for his trumpet and spiritual depth, Bassey’s songs like “Imela” and “Olowogbogboro” have become staples in churches. His digital movement, The Hallelujah Challenge, connects millions in worship globally.
3. Mercy Chinwo
With a powerful voice and passionate delivery, Mercy Chinwo has become one of the most loved gospel stars of her generation. From “Excess Love” to “Obinasom”, her songs are both worship tools and inspirational anthems.
4. Moses Bliss
One of the fastest-rising names in gospel, Moses Bliss has touched lives with songs like “Too Faithful”. He also leads Spotlite Nation, a platform nurturing the next generation of gospel artists.
5. Dunsin Oyekan
Nicknamed The Eagle, Dunsin Oyekan is known for prophetic worship sessions that carry intensity and power. With songs like “Fragrance to Fire” and “The Anthem”, he has built a reputation as one of the most anointed voices in African gospel.
6. Tim Godfrey
A dynamic performer and creative force, Tim Godfrey is famous for blending urban gospel with worship. His hit “Nara”, a collaboration with Travis Greene, remains one of the most impactful Nigerian gospel songs of recent years.
7. Ada Ehi
With her vibrant style and youthful energy, Ada Ehi infuses pop and Afrobeat elements into gospel. Songs like “Only You Jesus” and “Cheta” have made her a household name across Africa.
8. Tope Alabi
Tope Alabi is a legend in Yoruba gospel music, celebrated for her lyrical depth and ability to combine traditional sounds with contemporary gospel. Her songs have influenced worshippers for decades and remain evergreen.
9. Frank Edwards
A multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer, Frank Edwards is one of the most versatile Nigerian gospel musicians. His blend of Afrobeat and worship has made him stand out globally, with hits like “You Too Dey Bless Me”.
10. Judikay
Signed under Eezee Conceptz, Judikay has become a strong female voice in worship music. Her soulful songs like “More Than Gold” and “Capable God” are widely loved in churches across Nigeria.
11. Chioma Jesus
Known for her high-energy praise songs, Chioma Jesus (Amaka Okwuoha) has been an influential figure in Igbo gospel. Her ability to connect with grassroots audiences makes her unique.
12. Ebuka Songs
One of the new faces of Nigerian gospel, Ebuka Songs has quickly risen with heartfelt worship anthems that resonate with young believers. His sound is fresh, and his influence is growing fast.
13. Yinka Ayefele
A household name in Nigeria, Yinka Ayefele is celebrated for his gospel juju style. Despite a tragic accident that left him wheelchair-bound, his resilience and music have inspired millions.
14. Lawrence Oyor
Lawrence Oyor is known for his deep, soul-stirring chants and worship songs that connect with listeners seeking intimacy with God. His music is widely used in prayer and revival meetings.
15. Sunmisola Agbebi
A rising star, Sunmisola Agbebi represents the new generation of gospel artists. With her unique voice and songs like “Koseunti”, she is carving a strong space for herself in the gospel scene.
Why This Matters
Nigeria’s gospel industry is more than just music, it is a movement of faith, culture, and creativity. These artists are not only entertaining but also leading spiritual revivals through their sound. Their talent continues to push Nigerian gospel music onto global stages, proving that worship truly has no borders.
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