The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti is set to commence full commercial operations, according to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN).
Speaking to journalists during an inspection of the airport facilities alongside Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other top officials, the Minister revealed that the airport is 99.5% completed.
Keyamo highlighted the airport’s international-standard runway and a spacious apron capable of accommodating multiple Boeing 737 aircraft. “I landed here to show the world that it’s now safe for landing, which is why Aviation 001 had to land here. It’s a testament to my confidence in the facilities here for public use,” he said. The Minister added that commercial airline operations would begin shortly.
Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the Minister, legal icon Afe Babalola, and President Bola Tinubu for their contributions to the realization of the airport project. He emphasized the airport’s potential to boost the state’s economy through agriculture, commerce, and tourism while also increasing property value due to the expected influx of traffic.
“It is a dual-purpose airport, serving both agro-allied products and commercial passengers,” the Governor stated.
The Minister, who arrived at the airport on Monday and departed on Tuesday, reaffirmed that the project represents a major milestone for the state, paving the way for economic growth and development.
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is expected to create jobs and provide opportunities for the export of agricultural products, making it a significant addition to Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
(NAN)