The Oyo State Government has announced that Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Alakia, Ibadan, will officially commence international flight operations by June 2026. This ambitious transformation is part of a broader initiative to modernize the state’s transportation infrastructure and boost regional connectivity. The announcement came through the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who spoke to the media in Ibadan.
International Terminal Construction Reaches Key Milestone
According to Oyelade, construction of the new international terminal is already underway and currently stands at 15 percent completion. The terminal is a central component of the ongoing airport overhaul, and its completion will mark a major step toward launching international operations. He emphasized that the government has intensified efforts to ensure the project meets all international aviation standards.
“The objective is to position Ibadan as a key player in regional and international air travel,” Oyelade said, adding that significant infrastructure enhancements are already in progress.
Runway Expansion and Modernization Underway
One of the critical elements of the upgrade includes a comprehensive extension and expansion of the airport’s runway. The current 2,400-metre runway is being extended to 3,000 metres to accommodate long-haul aircraft, while its width is being increased from 45 metres to 60 metres. This will enable the airport to handle wide-body jets commonly used for international travel.
In addition to the runway improvements, the airfield lighting system has been elevated to Category C (CAT C), ensuring improved visibility and safer night operations. Firefighting and emergency response infrastructure have also been significantly bolstered to meet global safety protocols.
“These upgrades are vital to positioning Ibadan as a credible destination for international flights and to ensure the safety of both aircraft and passengers,” the commissioner noted.
Customs and Immigration Facilities Being Installed
To support international operations, Oyelade confirmed that provisions are already being made for critical airport services such as Customs, Immigration, and other regulatory agencies. These services are essential for processing international passengers and cargo efficiently and securely.
“The integration of these facilities is a testament to the government’s commitment to delivering a fully functional international airport that meets global standards,” he added.
Domestic Flight Operations to Resume in 2025
While the airport remains closed due to ongoing upgrades, local flight operations are expected to resume before the end of 2025. Oyelade revealed that major construction on essential airside infrastructure—including the runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads—has reached 55 percent completion.
“Once the regulatory authorities give the green light, domestic flights will resume. This is part of a phased approach that allows us to open up the airport for immediate local use while preparing for full international operations by mid-2026,” he stated.
Part of Broader Infrastructure Vision
The airport redevelopment aligns with the state government’s long-term strategy to transform Ibadan into a regional economic hub. Enhancing aviation infrastructure is central to this vision, especially as the city continues to attract investment and population growth.
“By improving our airport facilities, we not only boost domestic travel but also pave the way for Ibadan to connect directly to international destinations,” Oyelade explained. He stressed that improved air connectivity would positively impact tourism, trade, and economic development across the state and beyond.
Project Timeline and Historical Context
The Ladoke Akintola International Airport upgrade project officially commenced on September 18, 2024. However, construction activities gained momentum following the airport’s temporary closure in March 2025. This shutdown was implemented to accelerate progress on critical infrastructure work without disrupting flight operations.
The ongoing reconstruction reflects years of advocacy from industry stakeholders and citizens who have long called for Ibadan to host a functional international airport. Given the city’s size, academic institutions, and growing commercial relevance, many have considered the development overdue.
Economic and Social Impact
The implications of transforming the Ibadan airport into an international gateway are far-reaching. Once operational, the airport will attract more business travelers, open up export markets for local products, and make travel easier for residents in Oyo and neighboring states.
Local entrepreneurs, logistics companies, and travel agencies are also expected to benefit immensely from the boost in passenger and cargo traffic. Additionally, improved accessibility could spark growth in tourism, healthcare travel, and educational exchanges, further solidifying Ibadan’s reputation as a regional powerhouse.
Conclusion
With an eye on June 2026 for the launch of international flight operations, the Oyo State Government appears firmly committed to completing the Ladoke Akintola International Airport upgrade on schedule. From extended runways and upgraded lighting systems to the introduction of immigration and customs services, the transformation is comprehensive and ambitious.
The return of domestic flight operations by late 2025 will offer a preview of the airport’s future capabilities, setting the stage for a major leap in Ibadan’s transportation and economic infrastructure. If completed as planned, the project will not only change how residents travel but could also redefine the city’s role on both the national and international stage.
