Bolaji Ayorinde’s Led Advisory Council Lauds Gov. Makinde’s Visionary Leadership•••Leads Members On Inspection Tour Of SLA International Airport
•By Oyeniyi Awojoodu
IBADAN – The Chairman of Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN) has landed the state Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde over the ongoing upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport Ibadan, just as he said that the Airport when completed will significantly boost the state’s economy through strategic government and private sector collaboration.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing upgrading project of the Project, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde described the project as a “legacy project” that will outlive its initiators, Engr. Seyi Makinde.
He also noted that the project will bring long-term economic benefits to the people of Oyo State. He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for expanding on the vision of past administrations and laying the foundation for a more prosperous future.
In his words, Ayorinde said, “Governor Makinde is undeniably a visionary. These are not projects designed for personal or immediate political gain, he has just about two years left in office. What he is building is for posterity. Those who originally built this airport decades ago are no longer here, yet we still remember and honour their efforts. In that same way, Governor Makinde is expanding that original vision and creating what we rightly call a legacy project. He deserves commendation for that.
“Consider this airport upgrade a legacy project of the current administration. Just last week, we were at the Circular Road project and saw the impressive progress being made. This airport is another significant infrastructure site we felt it was important to visit personally.
“It’s one thing to read about government efforts in newspapers or hear about them on the news, it’s another to see them firsthand. We are here so that we can say to the Governor, “We have seen it for ourselves.” We’re also here to listen, to learn, and to see the extent of the work being done on the ground.”
“From the groundbreaking to this point, the progress has been truly impressive. At the beginning, what we saw were mainly 3D renderings and conceptual drawings. Today, we are witnessing those concepts take physical shape. The collaboration between the Oyo State Government and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is a commendable example of governance in action focused on development, not politics. Ayorinde said.
While speaking on the benefits of the airport, Ayorinde said, “This project will bring immense benefits to the people. For instance, cargo operations will be launched here, which will allow businesspeople to ship and receive goods across the world directly through Ibadan. It will stimulate commerce, generate jobs, and create demand for a wide range of services from logistics to hospitality.
“There is also strong potential for private sector investment. We’ve already received enquiries from investors interested in building hotels and other service-based facilities to support the airport’s operations.
“So my message to the residents of Oyo state and the entire south western part of the country is that this project is not just about infrastructure, it’s about development. It will benefit not just Ibadan or Oyo State, but the entire Southwest region. The government can only provide the foundation, but it is up to the people to take ownership. This is a project for the people, and we must all embrace it as ours.
“This is not just a project for today, but a legacy that will benefit generations to come. Governor Makinde is not only a visionary leader but one committed to development that transcends his tenure,” Ayorinde stated.
Also in his words, the Chairman of the Ibadan Airport Upgrade Committee, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, who conducted members of the advisory council round the ongoing project assured that major components of the project will be completed by the end of November 2025.
He said, “The goal is to bring the Ibadan Airport up to international standards. A major component of the upgrade is the runway extension, from 2,400 metres to 3,000 metres in length and an additional 7.5 metres width on both sides.
“We’re also expanding passenger capacity. The old terminal handled around 100,000 passengers per year, but with this upgrade, the new terminal will be capable of processing up to 1 million passengers annually. If you visit the site today, you’ll see the scale and quality of work on the runway and the terminal.
“One critical feature is the upgrade of the firefighting and emergency response system, which is essential for international operations. We’re also installing a modern Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) system that will enable safe landings during poor visibility or nighttime.
“In addition, a new Instrument Landing System (ILS) is being installed. Although one had been promised and allocated to Ibadan, due to an emergency at the Lagos Airport, it had to be diverted. Thankfully, the Oyo State Government, under Governor Seyi Makinde, stepped in to procure another unit, demonstrating his commitment to this project.
“There are several ancillary and support projects going on. For instance, the perimeter fencing is being re-established to tackle encroachment, which is currently a challenge.
“There is also a water pipeline from Asejire that is being reactivated to support the larger airport facilities. The car park is being expanded, and we are also preparing for recruitments, from airport staff to shop operators, taxi services, and more. We already have an aviation fuel terminal here, which will support the wide-body aircraft we expect in the near future. Bimbo Adekanmbi said.
While speaking on the project delivery timeline, Adekanmbi said, “initially, we planned to deliver the runway by September 2025, but the rainy season has delayed progress. We are now targeting November 2025 for its completion and full functionality. For the new terminal, we’re looking at June 2026. Construction is ongoing, and we’re ensuring it’s on track. We also hold regular meetings with community stakeholders to maintain alignment and address concerns as we move forward.
“We must thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting the approval for this upgrade. And we must commend Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership.
“We sincerely thank the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his commitment to upgrading this airport. As the chairman; advisory council rightly said, and I quote, “He is a visionary.” This project is a massive legacy initiative, one that could only be undertaken by someone who truly loves their state.
“We thank the government, the advisory council, and the project leadership for their foresight. We are proud to host any Nigerian who wishes to visit and see the remarkable work being done here. The airport upgrade is at a very advanced stage. We hope the core infrastructure will be completed by the end of September. However, there will still be some auxiliary works, such as runway markings, lighting installations, and a few other finishing touches, which might extend the full completion timeline to December.
“As for the terminal buildings, the existing local terminal is designed to process about 100,000 passengers annually. The new terminal, currently under construction, is projected to handle up to one million passengers per annum. The structural works are at about 30% completion, and we are targeting June next year for that to be ready. Factoring in additional installations, cargo belts, IT infrastructure, and other fittings, the terminal should be ready for full operation by August.
“We are also working behind the scenes on essential upgrades, including improved fire safety facilities and extending water supply from Asejire to support the expanded terminal and associated services. We appeal to the public for continued understanding and patience. Once completed, this airport will be a source of pride for the people and a testament to Governor Makinde’s vision.” He said.
Other members of the advisory council on the tour are, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, Barrister Michael Lana, Alhaji Bashir Ajibade, Hon Abiola Adebukola Ajaja, among others.