Tinubu's Approval Paves Way For Upgrade of Ibadan Airport -Seyi Makinde

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde announced that President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the upgrade of Ibadan Airport, on Wednesday. 

The Governor, has proudly announced that his administration's persistent efforts to upgrade Ibadan Airport in Alakia to international standards have come to fruition. The much-anticipated upgrade is set to begin in the next three weeks. 

This announcement was made during a meeting with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Baba Abubakar, at the Executive Chamber, Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

OPEN TELEVISION Naija gathered that the project will include the construction of a new terminal, an expanded runway, and various other structural enhancements. The Governor emphasized that the upgrade would be managed by industry experts, ensuring that the work meets the highest standards of quality and safety. This development is expected to significantly boost the airport's capacity, facilitate increased passenger traffic, and stimulate economic growth in the region. 

Makinde's dedication to this project highlights his vision for transforming Ibadan into a major aviation hub, benefiting both the local community and the broader region.

According to the governor, he highlighted that his administration has spent the last five years revitalizing the state’s economy, identifying the upgrade of Ibadan Airport as a crucial component of their economic expansion strategy. 

He added that the government's commitment to building infrastructure aimed at economic growth has also led to significant investments in the 110-kilometer Ibadan Circular Road. 

Additionally, Makinde mentioned that the administration would consider the Air Force’s request for land along the Circular Road Corridor for its post-retirement housing scheme.

“We have been talking to the Presidency and we got a response from them early this week that the President has graciously approved my request for Ibadan Airport to be upgraded,” said, Makinde. 

“I will be in Abuja soon to get the documents relating to the approval. And within three weeks, we will start the project. We will expand the runway and build a new terminal.

“Since I came into office, this administration has focused on education, agriculture, health and expansion of our economy.” He added. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija revealed that, Makinde recapitulate his administration's commitment to collaborating with the Air Force to complete the Air Force Base in Ajia, Ibadan. 

He assured that the road leading to the base would be swiftly completed. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija further gathered that the government has commenced repairs of several link roads in the vicinity to ensure easy movement of personnel and equipment. This includes the Ajia-Airport Road with a spur to Amuloko, and the Amuloko-Dagbolu-Ijebu Igbo Roads. 

Earlier, Abubakar praised Makinde as a visionary leader, expressed gratitude for his support of the Air Force.

He also complimented Makinde for his dedication to economic development and security enhancement in Oyo State, also highlighting the acquisition of 60 hectares for the Air Force Base at Ajia and the provision of security operational vehicles as commendable initiatives by the governor. 

However, he urged the governor to expedite the completion of the 10km Ajia-Airport Road to facilitate the movement of Air Force operations. 

Abubakar therefore assured that the Air Force would continue to support the state and strengthen the mutual relationship between the Air Force and the state government.