The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced that the state government is soon to recoup all expenses incurred on the state’s Agro Cargo Airport. This comes as several international aviation companies express interest in obtaining concessional operations at the airport, which is strategically located along the Iperu-Ilishan road in Ikenne Local Government area.
The concept behind the airport is to establish an aerotropolis, taking advantage of its proximity to Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital. Governor Abiodun, after inspecting the airport over the weekend, revealed that commercial flights will commence operations at the facility before the end of the year.
Furthermore, the governor stated that the airport would be officially granted approval to commence full commercial operations by the end of 2023. Both local and international flights are expected to land and take off from the airport. Prince Abiodun expressed confidence that the airport would attract international flights by the end of the year.
“What we are building in Ogun State is a truly international airport that can compete globally. We made the decision to build the facility as waiting for others to do so would have taken forever,” said Governor Abiodun.
He added, “We believe that as the government, our role is to facilitate the development of such projects. In de-risking this project, we sourced funding to build the airport and will later concession it to others. The fact that international airport operators are expressing interest in this airport, even though it is yet to be completed, is testament to its world-class standard.”
The governor emphasized that the runway, administrative building, apron, and control tower at the airport are the best in the country. The runway, in particular, is the longest and widest ever constructed in Nigeria. Additionally, the apron, measuring a remarkable 82,000 square metres, and the administration building near completion, further position the airport as a global aviation hub.
Located within a special processing zone, the airport serves as a prime example of public-private sector partnership, aligning with the state government’s vision from the beginning. Governor Abiodun commended the progress made so far, attributing it to the government’s unwavering dedication and focus despite distractions.
As the concessioning process begins in the next 30 to 45 days, the state government aims to recoup the funds expended on the airport. The revenue generated from the concession will enable the government to pay debts and invest in other crucial initiatives.
With promising prospects for the future, the Ogun State Agro Cargo Airport is poised to become a key player in the global aviation industry, enhancing trade and facilitating economic growth in the state.
