Oyo commences construction of Ibadan airport terminal to accommodate one million passengers yearly

The Oyo state government has commenced the construction of a new terminal building at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan to enhance air travel.

Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo, on June 27, 2024, announced that President Bola Tinubu had approved the upgrade of Ibadan airport to international standards.

On Friday, Bimbo Adekanmbi, chairman of the airport upgrade committee, announced that the terminal building, once completed, would accommodate up to one million passengers annually.

Adekanmbi emphasised that constructing a new terminal is a crucial part of the ongoing airport upgrade, highlighting that the capacity increase is significant compared to the current 100,000 passengers.

“This will not only ease the flow of passengers, but will also boost the airport’s cargo handling capacity, thereby positioning Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport as a top-tier facility in Nigeria,” Adekanmbi said.

“It is about creating a modern, efficient, and world-class airport that enhances the overall travel experience.

“It will equally drive economic growth, attracting investments, and empowering the people of the state.”

‘AIRPORT PLAYS CRITICAL ROLE IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT’

He explained that airports play a critical role in economic development, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, which is why governments invest heavily in infrastructure to foster prosperity and regional integration.

The chairman commended the governor of Oyo for leading efforts to develop the airport and driving infrastructure improvements across the state.

He praised Makinde’s unwavering dedication to progress, his strong commitment to improving the state’s connectivity, and his determination to see the project through.

Adekanmbi recalled that the first phase of the airport upgrade began in September 2024, involving the extension of the runway to 3,000 metres from the previous 2,400 metres.

The chairman said the runway extension marked a major step towards transforming the airport to meet international standards and regulatory requirements, making it capable of accommodating larger aircraft.

He also said the first phase of work had reached a completion level of between 30 and 40 percent, assuring that it would be finished before the end of the year.

Adekanmbi added that the new terminal building would be ready for operation in the first quarter of 2026.

Abiola Adejare, director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) engineering services, said the upgrade would create new opportunities for economic growth and improved connectivity.

Adejare also commended the state government for its commitment to modernising the airport infrastructure.

Oliver Makh-Louf, the project site engineer at Craneburg Construction Company, which is handling the project, assured the state government of the company’s commitment to delivering quality work.