Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially commenced the N41 billion upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) Airport in Ibadan, a project designed to position the state as a regional business hub. The project’s groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 18, 2024, at the airport premises, with Governor Makinde joined by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and other dignitaries.
(Gov. Seyi Makinde, Gov. Ademola Adeleke and other dignitaries at the opening ceremony N41 billion upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) Airport in Ibadan)
During the ceremony, Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Oyo State’s economy, saying, “Our focus is on fighting poverty, not the poor. While it is true that times are tough, this project represents a significant investment in our future.”
The upgrade, which is expected to be completed within 12 months, aims to elevate the SLA Airport to international standards, enhancing transportation infrastructure and connecting the state to global markets. This is seen as a critical step towards stimulating the economy and fostering business growth, especially in agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
A Vision for Regional Economic Growth
(Gov. Seyi Makinde speaking at the opening ceremony of the N41 billion upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) Airport in Ibadan)
Governor Makinde highlighted that the upgrade of the airport has been in the works since 2019, with a clear goal of positioning Ibadan as a regional business hub within the South-West region. The governor emphasised that the project would improve the ease of doing business in the state and attract investments, stating, “Modernising the airport is essential for connecting the state to the global economy and facilitating economic activities.”
With an estimated cost of N41 billion, the airport’s upgrade is expected to create numerous job opportunities, stimulate tourism, and open doors to increased foreign and local investments. Makinde believes that the project will drive long-term prosperity for Oyo State by enabling businesses to thrive and encouraging investors to set up operations in Ibadan.
Collaboration with Neighboring States
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who attended the ceremony as a special guest, commended Governor Makinde’s vision and commitment to economic development. Adeleke described Makinde as a “true actualiser” of development projects and expressed his eagerness to collaborate on mutually beneficial initiatives for both Oyo and Osun states.
“We are looking forward to working together on opportunities that will benefit our states and the people. Governor Makinde’s leadership is an example for others to follow,” Adeleke remarked during the event.
(Gov. Seyi Makinde, Gov. Ademola Adeleke and other dignitaries at the opening ceremony N41 billion upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) Airport in Ibadan)
The acting manager of SLA Airport, Francis Balogun, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, applauded the project, noting that it would play a key role in the state’s economic growth. According to Balogun, “The airport’s upgrade will stimulate the state’s economy, creating jobs and attracting investment. This is a significant project for Oyo State’s development.”
As the project moves forward, Makinde expressed his hopes for the timely completion of the airport upgrade, emphasising that he had tasked the contractors, Craneburg Construction Company, to expedite the process and complete the project within 12 months. Originally scheduled for an 18-month completion, Makinde’s push for an accelerated timeline reflects the administration’s urgency in delivering this transformative infrastructure.
“Connecting Oyo State to global markets will bring about a significant transformation in our economy. This airport will serve as a gateway, driving business and creating new opportunities for our people,” Makinde stated.
Leave feedback about this