President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of Ibadan Airport, announced by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Wednesday.

Governor Makinde shared that the project, which includes constructing a new terminal and expanding the runway, will commence within the next three weeks.

Governor Makinde disclosed the news while hosting the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Baba Abubakar, at the Executive Chamber in Ibadan. He emphasized that this upgrade is a significant part of his administration’s economic expansion agenda, which has been in progress for the past five years.

“We have been talking to the Presidency and we got a response from them early this week that the President has graciously approved my request for Ibadan Airport to be upgraded,” Governor Makinde said. “I will be in Abuja soon to get the documents relating to the approval. And within three weeks, we will start the project. We will expand the runway and build a new terminal.”

The governor also highlighted other infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the state’s economy, including the 110 kilometers of the Ibadan Circular Road. He assured the Air Force of considering their request for land on the Circular Road for a post-retirement housing scheme.

Additionally, Governor Makinde praised the Air Force for its cooperation with local security agencies, contributing to the internal security of Oyo State. He noted that his administration is working on roads around the Air Force Base in Ajia to facilitate easy movement of personnel and equipment, ensuring the completion of the Ajia-Airport Road and other vital routes.

Air Marshal Abubakar commended Governor Makinde for his visionary leadership and support of the Air Force, acknowledging the governor’s efforts in economic development and enhancing security in the state. He also urged the governor to expedite the ongoing 10km Ajia-Airport Road project to aid the Force’s operations.