Local flights are set to resume operations at Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, by the end of the year following significant upgrades aimed at transforming the airport into a modern international facility.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, preparations are in full swing to bring the airport up to international standards. The ambitious upgrade project, officially launched on September 18, 2024, saw the airport temporarily shut down in March 2025 to expedite construction work.
According to the Commissioner, key improvements at the airport include extending the runway from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters and widening it from 45 meters to 60 meters to accommodate wide-body aircraft for international flights. Additionally, the airfield lighting system has been upgraded to CAT C standards, and fire-fighting capabilities have been enhanced to ensure top-notch safety protocols.
Prince Oyelade revealed that essential facilities, such as Customs, Immigration, and other agencies, are being integrated to meet international requirements. He noted that the ongoing runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pad upgrades, which are currently at 55% completion, are expected to be finished by the end of the year, paving the way for the resumption of local flights, pending approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the International Terminal construction, currently at 15% completion, is on track to be completed by June 2026, ready to handle international flights.
These upgrades reflect the government’s vision to transform the Ibadan Airport into a modern, internationally competitive hub, with Prince Oyelade emphasizing the importance of improving both domestic connectivity and global travel potential.
In line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment, the next Hajj flight to Saudi Arabia will depart from Ibadan Airport in 2026, marking another milestone for the facility.
