By our Reporter
Local flight operations are expected to resume at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, by the end of the year, as the Oyo state government intensifies efforts to upgrade the facility to international standards.
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that significant progress has been made on the ongoing renovation works, which prompted the airport’s closure in March 2025. The upgrade project was officially flagged off on September 18, 2024.
According to Oyelade, key developments include the extension of the runway from 2,400 to 3,000 meters and its widening from 45 to 60 meters to accommodate wide-body aircraft for international flights.
He added that the airfield lighting system has been upgraded to CAT C standards, while firefighting and emergency response capabilities have also been enhanced to meet global safety requirements.
The commissioner disclosed that facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other essential agencies are being installed to align with international aviation protocols.
Oyelade noted that the runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads are currently at 55 percent completion and should be ready before year-end. He said domestic flight services would resume afterwards, pending approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
He also revealed that construction of the international terminal, which currently stands at 15 per cent completion, is projected to be finished by June 2026.
“These upgrades reflect the state government’s vision to transform the Ibadan Airport into a modern and internationally competitive facility,” he said.
“By enhancing our infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft, we are not only improving domestic connectivity but also paving the way for global travel”, he said.
He reiterated the promise of Governor Seyi Makinde that the next Hajj flight to Saudi Arabia next year will be from the airport.
