Just In: Upgraded Ibadan Airport Records First Flight Ahead Of Olubadan Coronation

The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan on Wednesday received its first flight since it was closed in March 2023 for major upgrades to international standards.

Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.

The aircraft, an advanced member of the presidential fleet scheduled to arrive on Friday, landed at exactly 9:14 a.m., marking a significant milestone in the airport’s readiness. Excited onlookers at the airport celebrated the successful touchdown.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected in Ibadan on Friday for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Governor Seyi Makinde, who performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade in September 2024, said the project would connect Oyo State to the global market and boost economic growth.

As part of the upgrade, the state government has improved the VIP lounge, installed a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility, and provided a new fire truck.