Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially launched the N41 billion upgrade of the Ibadan Airport, now renamed Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport. The project is set to transform the airport to international standards, positioning Oyo State as a regional economic hub.
During the ground-breaking ceremony held at the airport in Ibadan on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Makinde expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the upgrade at no cost to the federal government. The governor revealed that the project is a key part of his administration’s efforts to modernize infrastructure and promote economic growth in the state.
Makinde explained that the upgrade, expected to be completed within 12 months, will involve extending the runway, upgrading airport facilities, and constructing a new cargo terminal. These improvements will enhance both business and leisure travel, connecting Oyo State to global markets and stimulating local economic activities. “Our focus is on fighting poverty, not the poor. This project represents a strategic investment in the future of our state,” he noted.
Acting Manager of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Francis Balogun, highlighted that the upgrade will create jobs, boost Oyo State’s economy, and attract further investment. The project also includes plans to expand the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft, increase the airport’s apron space, and upgrade the firefighting capacity from CAT 6 to CAT 9.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who was a special guest at the event, praised Makinde’s commitment to infrastructure development and expressed interest in exploring collaborative opportunities between Oyo and Osun states.
With airlines like Overland Airways, Air Peace, and GreenAfrica Airways already operating flights to the airport, the upgrade is expected to significantly increase air traffic and further Oyo State’s economic prospects.
