The Ogun State Government has announced that its Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport, billed to be the largest in Nigeria and West Africa, is nearing completion.
During a recent inspection, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, disclosed that the airport is “95-98 percent complete” and boasts a 4km-long, 60-meter-wide runway, making it the region’s largest.
The facility, spanning 5,000 hectares, will initially operate on 900 hectares as part of its first phase.
Akinsanya revealed that the airport will serve as a hub for aviation and commercial activities in the region, with plans to transform it into an aerotropolis.
He highlighted the integration of hotels, amusement parks, and cinemas in future development phases.
“This airport will not just serve as a transit point but as a destination in itself,” Akinsanya stated.
While awaiting the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s approval for full-scale commercial operations, the airport currently has the green light for chartered flights.
The commissioner added, “The runway is complete, and the fire station is operational. With a newly acquired fire tender, we are upgrading from Class Six to Class Seven.”
The Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, emphasized the airport’s strategic location within a special agricultural processing zone.
He described it as a legacy project of Governor Dapo Abiodun, aimed at boosting agricultural exports and fostering economic development.
“This airport will serve as a gateway for agro-export, making Ogun State a key player in regional and global trade,” Dairo said.
Captain Dapo Olumide, the airport manager, noted that the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport will be the first in Nigeria to operate under an official operating permit, a stricter certification than the standard Aerodrome Certificate.
He explained that this milestone certification demonstrates the state’s commitment to meeting international aviation standards, ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations.
The airport’s completion is expected to provide a major boost to Ogun State’s economy, enhancing its appeal to investors and creating thousands of jobs in aviation, hospitality, and logistics.
