By Basit Jamiu,Bayo Olupohunda
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Ibadan’s Ladoke Akintola Airport has reopened with its first flight since March 2025, marking a major milestone in its international upgradeThe successful landing of a presidential aircraft signals readiness for high-profile operations ahead of President Tinubu’s visitGovernor Makinde’s ambitious infrastructure overhaul positions Oyo State for global connectivity and economic growth
The Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan marked a significant milestone on Wednesday as it received its first aircraft since undergoing a major upgrade to meet international standards.
The airport had been closed since March 2025 for extensive renovations aimed at enhancing its infrastructure and operational capacity.
At precisely 9:14 am, an advanced aircraft, part of the presidential fleet scheduled for Friday, touched down on the newly refurbished runway.
The arrival was met with visible excitement from onlookers and airport personnel, signalling a new chapter for aviation in Oyo State.
The flight’s successful landing was seen as a strong indication of the airport’s readiness to accommodate high-profile and international traffic.
Officials noted that the infrastructure now in place is capable of supporting safe and efficient air travel, particularly ahead of the anticipated visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
President Tinubu is expected in Ibadan on Friday, 26 September, for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The presidential flight is scheduled to follow shortly after Wednesday’s inaugural arrival, reinforcing confidence in the airport’s upgraded facilities.
Oyo state governor highlights economic potential of airport upgrade
The reopening of the airport follows a year-long transformation initiated by Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde.
In September 2024, Makinde had performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the upgrade, stating that the project would “connect the state to the global market.”
The governor had also emphasised the broader impact of the development, noting that, “The upgrade of the airport is expected to enhance air travel operations and provide a reliable transportation network for both business and leisure travellers, positioning the state for economic growth and development.”
Prior to the runway overhaul, the Makinde administration had already made strategic improvements to the facility.
These included the renovation of the VIP lounge, the provision of a fire truck, and the installation of a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing system.
The arrival of the first aircraft since the upgrade is being hailed as a promising sign for future operations, with stakeholders optimistic about the airport’s role in boosting regional connectivity and economic activity.
See the X post below:
Nigerian airport to be shut down for 6 months
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the planned shutdown of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo state for six months for maintenance and upgrade works to take place.
The state government is upgrading the domestic airport into an international airport. Michael Achimugu, director of public affairs and consumer protection at the NCAA disclosed this on Friday, February 28, 2025, via his X handle.
This announcement is coming barely eight months after the state got the approval of President Bola Tinubu, to improve the airport to an international status. In June, President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade of Ibadan Domestic Airport to an international airport.
Source: Legit.ng
