Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has unveiled plans to transform the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport into a 24-hour operational hub, positioning it as a major economic driver and investment magnet.
Speaking during the monthly media chat titled “Meet Your Governor,” Oyebanji expressed confidence in the state’s economic progress over the past two and a half years and reiterated his commitment to sustainable development and improved living standards for the people.
To enhance the airport’s competitiveness and profitability, the state government is finalizing discussions with three leading airlines to commence commercial flights. The initiative is expected to facilitate air travel, boost tourism, attract investments, and enable cargo transportation of farm produce to both local and international destinations.
Governor Oyebanji revealed that at least two of the airlines are expected to begin operations soon. He also emphasized the need to install an Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the airport, which would guarantee safe night operations and landing in adverse weather conditions. The ILS installation, estimated to cost around ₦4.6 billion, is set to be completed by the end of the year, making the airport the second in Southwest Nigeria—after Lagos—to offer 24-hour flight capabilities.
“We are determined to make the Ekiti Airport a preferred choice,” Oyebanji stated. “By next year, it will be capable of running Hajj and Christian pilgrimage flights. Our objective is to make the route profitable and competitive for airlines. Once the route is lucrative, they will bring their planes.”
The governor also disclosed plans to build a cargo shed at the airport to accommodate farm produce and cash crops, further strengthening the state’s agricultural export potential. He lauded Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele for securing the airport’s inclusion in the national budget, highlighting that the facility received approval for non-scheduled flight operations for six months last December.
Governor Oyebanji also noted remarkable economic growth indicators under his administration, including a surge in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from about ₦600 million to over ₦2 billion monthly. He attributed this success to an improved business environment, effective tax utilization, and the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
With the anticipated commercial operations and enhanced infrastructure, the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is poised to become a vital hub for economic transformation and sustainable development in the state.
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