In a significant milestone for Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of Ibadan Airport to international status.
This development is expected to drive economic growth and enhance regional integration.
Governor Makinde disclosed this on Wednesday during a courtesy visit from Air Marshal Hassan Baba Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF), at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan.
“I will be heading to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, later today to finalize the necessary documentation,” said Governor Makinde, assuring that work on the project would commence once all documents are perfected. The upgrade will include the expansion of the runway and the construction of a new terminal. A dedicated team has been formed to oversee the implementation of the project, which is anticipated to significantly boost the state’s economy.
Governor Makinde also sought the input of Air Force personnel in ensuring that the project meets the required operating standards.
During his recent State of the State address, Governor Makinde pledged that pilgrims from Oyo State would be airlifted from Ibadan Airport for the 2024 Hajj, underscoring his commitment to enhancing air travel facilities in the state.
Air Marshal Hassan Baba Abubakar, who was in Ibadan as part of an operational tour of Air Force formations across the country, praised Governor Makinde for his administration’s support to the armed forces, particularly the Air Force Base in the state.
The approval of the Ibadan Airport upgrade marks a significant step towards improved infrastructure and economic development in Oyo State.
