The Gateway International Airport at Iperu Remo in Ogun State has officially begun scheduled commercial flights, marking a new chapter in the state’s aviation and economic development.
Governor Dapo Abiodun inaugurated the ValueJet Airlines flight to Abuja aboard a Bombardier CRJ jet on Friday, describing the milestone as a testament to his administration’s commitment to infrastructural growth. He also commended his predecessors for their foresight in establishing the airport, which he described as the fastest-built terminal in Nigeria.
Abiodun hailed the project team and aviation authorities, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for ensuring full compliance with regulatory standards.
He said the airport’s strategic location would drive economic growth in the Gateway State, enhancing connectivity and attracting investment.
“Our vision for Ogun State is to create an enabling environment for public-private partnerships, driving economic growth and individual prosperity. We are building a state where people can live, work, and play,” the governor said.
He recalled that the project began in 2021, with the first aircraft landing in February 2023, adding that the transformation of what was once a dump site into a modern airport was remarkable.
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NCAA Hails Ogun’s Achievement
The Director General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, praised the Ogun State government for delivering the airport within record time.
He said: “This is the fastest airport project we’ve seen. The regulator ensured every standard was met. Other states must take lessons from Ogun’s example — it’s not just about starting a project but ensuring it meets aviation regulations.”
The Gateway International Airport is expected to boost tourism, logistics, trade, and agricultural exports, aligning with Nigeria’s broader vision for regional connectivity and private-sector-led infrastructure.
Ekiti Airport Gets Nod for Commercial Flights
In a related development, the Federal Government has approved scheduled flight operations for the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, effective October 4, 2025.
The approval, conveyed in a letter dated October 3, 2025, and signed by Godwin Balang, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, followed a validation inspection conducted from June 16 to 19.
According to the NCAA, the airport met the basic operational requirements for scheduled flights and has been granted an interim operational permit for daylight operations (sunrise to sunset).
Governor Biodun Oyebanji expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting economic initiatives that benefit subnational governments. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Kayode Fayemi and Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, for their roles in realizing the project.
Oyebanji said the development would accelerate agribusiness, tourism, and commercial growth in Ekiti, noting that the government was already installing an Instrument Landing System (ILS) to support night and all-weather operations.
He added that the airport’s commencement of scheduled flights would enhance the state’s image as a destination for investment, leisure, and sustainable development.
According to a 9am News report, the simultaneous progress of the Ogun and Ekiti airports represents a significant step in Nigeria’s drive to expand domestic air connectivity and stimulate state-level economic transformation.
Both projects highlight how aviation infrastructure can serve as a catalyst for industrial, agricultural, and tourism growth a key priority for Nigeria’s aviation and economic policy framework.
