Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the Ibadan Airport into a world-class facility, capable of competing with Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the airport’s upgrade and the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road project, both of which are integral to the state’s economic expansion plans.
Speaking at an official event, Governor Makinde highlighted his administration’s vision of making Oyo State a hub for commerce, logistics, and transportation.
“The upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to international standards and the completion of the Ibadan Circular Road are projects that will revolutionize the economy of Oyo State,” he said.
The airport upgrade, which is a collaborative effort between the state government and private sector investors, aims to enhance the facility’s capacity to handle international flights and larger cargo volumes.
According to Makinde, the project will include the extension of the runway, construction of a modern terminal, and installation of advanced navigation and security systems.
“Our goal is to make Ibadan Airport an alternative to Lagos, reducing congestion at Murtala Muhammed International Airport while boosting economic activities in our state. This airport, upon completion, will attract investors, facilitate exports, and enhance the overall ease of doing business,” Makinde stated.
He assured residents that parts of the upgraded airport would become operational soon, enabling domestic and regional flights to commence before the full completion of the project.
Makinde also emphasized the importance of the Ibadan Circular Road project, a 110-kilometer expressway designed to decongest traffic in Ibadan and improve connectivity to neighboring states.
He noted that the road, when completed, would serve as a critical link for transporting goods and services, further solidifying Ibadan’s position as a logistics hub.
“This project is not just about roads; it’s about unlocking the economic potential of Oyo State. The Ibadan Circular Road will connect the airport to major industrial zones and ensure seamless movement of people and goods,” he said.
The governor reassured stakeholders that his administration would overcome any challenges hindering the completion of the Circular Road, emphasizing its transformative potential for the state’s economy.
Economists and urban planners have lauded the initiatives, noting that the airport upgrade and road project will attract significant investments, create jobs, and position Ibadan as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics sectors.
Dr. Tunde Akanbi, a transport economist, stated, “Ibadan has the strategic advantage of proximity to Lagos, which makes it an ideal location for businesses seeking alternatives to Lagos’ saturated market. An international airport in Ibadan will enhance trade, tourism, and economic development not just for Oyo State but for the entire southwest region.”
Governor Makinde revealed that the projects were being executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model to ensure efficient delivery and sustainability. He called on investors to seize the opportunities presented by the state’s developmental strides.
“We have created an enabling environment for investments through favorable policies, infrastructure development, and transparency in governance. The upgrade of Ibadan Airport and the Circular Road are testaments to our dedication to driving growth through partnerships,” he said.
