The upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan, on Wednesday, received its first flight since it was closed down in March 2025 for upgrade to international standards.
The aircraft, which is an advanced member of the presidential flight scheduled for Friday, 26 September, 2025, arrived the airport at exactly 9:14 AM to the joy of everyone in the vicinity.
President Bola Tinubu is due to be in Ibadan on Friday for the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
Oba Ladoja had, last week, assured that the president will be physically present at his coronation, along with several other eminent dignitaries.
Special Adviser (Media) to the Oyo State Governor, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, stated in a release that the successful landing underscored the readiness and capabilities of the airport’s infrastructure to handle high-profile flights safely and efficiently.
“With the presidency flight scheduled to follow soon, this inaugural flight since March 2025 sets a positive precedent for future arrivals and departures,” he stated.
Recall that Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, had, in September 2024, performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the airport upgrade.
Makinde had said at the event that the project, when completed, would connect the state to the global market.
The governor had also noted: “The upgrade of the airport is expected to enhance air travel operations and provide a reliable transportation network for both business and leisure travelers, positioning the state for economic growth and development.”
Earlier, the Makinde administration had upgraded the VIP Lounge at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport and provided a fire truck.
The state government had also installed a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility at the airport.
