Why Ibadan Airport's International Upgrade Defies Lagos Proximity Concerns

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde strongly defended the Ibadan Airport upgrade to international standards. He dismissed concerns that the facility is too close to Lagos’s busy airports. The governor argued that proximity should not stop economic expansion agenda.

Makinde pointed to global examples of successful multi-airport regions. He specifically cited the United Arab Emirates as a model. “Look at Abu Dhabi and Dubai,” Makinde stated. “It’s not far, about 120 kilometres, just like Lagos to Ibadan.” He noted both cities have thriving international airports despite the short distance. The air distance between Ibadan and Lagos is approximately 117 kilometers (73 miles). This is comparable to the 105–123 kilometer distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Strategic Rationale and Economic Vision

The upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport (SLAA) is central to the governor’s second-term vision. The goal is to reposition Oyo State as a key hub for tourism and investment. Makinde stressed that Ibadan’s large population and consumption-driven economy require better air connectivity. The airport will serve as a critical gateway for trade and tourism inflows. This will support industrial growth across the region.

Significant infrastructure work across the state supports this vision. Road projects now connect all zones in Oyo State. This “heavy lifting” creates a foundation for the new international aviation hub.

Key Upgrade Details and Timelines

The Oyo State Government confirmed the SLAA upgrade is not a new project. It is an expansion of an existing facility. The project is being executed in phases. The first phase involved major airside infrastructure improvements.

• The runway is extended from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters. This enables the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft for long-haul international flights.
• The runway width was expanded from 45 meters to 60 meters.
• A new international terminal is under construction. It is projected to increase passenger capacity from 100,000 to 1,000,000 annually.
• The airport now includes a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage facility. This removes a major obstacle to viability.
• Airfield lighting was upgraded to Category 2 standards. This allows for 24-hour flight operations.

Local flight operations resumed in December 2025. This followed approval from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Full international operations are expected to commence in 2026. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) works closely with the state government on the project.

Industry Impact and Opportunities

This development creates a viable alternative to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. Reduced reliance on Lagos will ease congestion and improve regional air travel efficiency. The 3,000-meter runway and new terminal position Ibadan for direct international cargo and passenger traffic. This is a significant piece of commercial aviation news for West Africa. The upgrade is also expected to facilitate the 2026 Hajj airlift for Oyo State pilgrims. This will firmly establish the airport’s new international status. The project cost is reported to be around N41 billion for the initial phase. The investment signals a long-term commitment to aviation infrastructure. The new airport capacity will be a major boost for airlines. It offers new routes and operational flexibility in Nigeria's southwestern region. For more flight operation news, visit flying.flights.