The upgrade project at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is progressing steadily, with the new international terminal building expected to be completed by June 2026. The project, implemented in phases, has already seen significant milestones, including the extension and widening of the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft used in international travel.
The runway has been extended from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters and widened from 45 to 60 meters. The airfield lighting system at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport has been upgraded to Category C standards, providing pilots with enhanced visibility and significantly improving safety during flight operations, especially during nighttime or low-visibility conditions. This upgrade ensures compliance with international aviation standards, enabling the airport to accommodate a wider range of aircraft and enhancing its operational efficiency.
The State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde has significantly enhanced Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport safety profile by upgrading its fire safety and emergency response capabilities to meet stringent global aviation standards. The airport is now equipped with cutting-edge equipment and staffed by trained personnel, ensuring a prompt and effective response to emergencies.
To further facilitate international travel and trade, the airport is installing state-of-the-art facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other border agencies. These modern facilities will enable seamless processing of passengers and cargo, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall travel experience. By streamlining interactions between these critical agencies, the airport aims to become a preferred hub for international travel and trade.
The new terminal will increase passenger handling capacity from 100,000 to 1,000,000 annually. Supporting projects include the dualization of the 3.2 km Airport Road, the installation of a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing system concessioned to BOVAS and Company Limited, and the donation of a new fire truck to strengthen emergency preparedness.
The upgraded airport is expected to drive international trade, industrial development, and economic cooperation, positioning Oyo State as a viable alternative to Lagos and Abuja for both passenger and cargo traffic. The airport’s potential to attract foreign investment was highlighted during a meeting with Mouvement des entreprises de France (MEDEF), which expressed interest in airport cargo operations and agro-logistics.
The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport will serve as a gateway for trade, tourism, and investment, support industrial growth, and unlock new economic frontiers for Oyo State. With the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage flight expected to depart directly from Ibadan, the airport is poised to become a major hub for economic activity in the region.
Oyo State’s investment in the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport upgrade reflects its dedication to economic development and its ambitious vision of emerging as a modern economic hub. Strategically located and equipped with world-class infrastructure, the airport is poised to be a key driver of economic growth and development in the state, unlocking new opportunities for businesses, investors, and the local community.
