The Oyo state Government, yesterday, flagged-off the construction of a new terminal building at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Alakia, Ibadan, as part of the upgrafe of the facility.
The Chairman of the Airport Upgrade Committee, Mr Bimbo Adekanmbi, described the construction of a new terminal building as a crucial component of the ongoing upgrade.
According to him, the terminal building, when completed will accommodate up to one million passengers annually.
He noted that the number was a massive increase from the current capacity of 100,000.
“This will not only ease the flow of passengers, but will also boost the airport’s cargo handling capacity, thereby positioning Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport as a top-tier facility in Nigeria,” he said.
Adekanmbi further explained that the initiative goes beyond just expanding capacity.
“It is about creating a modern, efficient, and world-class airport that enhances the overall travel experience.
“It will equally drive economic growth, attracting investments, and empowering the people of the state,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of airports globally, Adekanmbi stated that they serve not only as transportation hubs but also as essential catalysts for economic development, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
He said that these prospects were part of the reasons governments made substantial investments in airport infrastructure to foster prosperity and regional integration.
Adekanmbi commended Gov. Seyi Makinde for championing the development of the airport.
He noted that Makinde’s relentless pursuit of progress, and his profound commitment to enhancing the state’s connectivity, was embodied in the grand project.
The chairman said that the first phase of the airport upgrade commenced in September 2024, with the extension of the runway to 3,000 metres, from the existing 2,400 metres.
Adekanmbi stated that the extension of the runway marked the beginning of the airport’s transformation to meet international standards and regulatory requirements, enabling it to accommodate larger aircraft.
He said that the first phase of work had reached a level of between 30 and 40 per cent completion, assuring that the first phase would be completed before the year ends.
Adekanmbi equally assured that the new terminal building would be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
Speaking on behalf of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Abiola Adejare, commended the state government for the upgrade of the airport.
Adejare, Director of FAAN’s Engineering Services, stated that the upgrade would open up new horizons of opportunity, growth, and connectivity.
The project site engineer, Craneburg Construction Company, handling the project, Mr Oliver Makh-Louf, assured the state government that his company would deliver quality job.(NAN)
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