The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has given the green light for scheduled flight operations to commence at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan. This development follows the Oyo State Government’s efforts to upgrade the airport to international standards, which included extending and widening the runway, enhancing airfield lighting, and constructing a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage facility.
In a letter dated December 16, 2025, addressed to the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the NCAA stated that it had approved the issuance of a provisional interim operational permit for scheduled flights at the airport. The approval was granted after the NCAA reviewed the updated status of safety-critical facilities, operational arrangements, and mitigation measures at the aerodrome.
The NCAA’s decision is a significant step forward for the airport, which had previously been granted temporary approval for non-scheduled operations. The authority’s approval is subject to strict compliance with certain conditions, including the full operationalization of emergency response arrangements. The provisional interim permit is a provisional measure, pending further evaluation and assessment of the airport’s operational capabilities.
The upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport is part of a broader effort to improve Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. The airport’s rehabilitation is expected to boost economic activity in the region and provide more travel options for passengers. The NCAA’s approval of scheduled flight operations at the airport marks a major milestone in this process.
The Oyo State Government’s investment in the airport’s upgrade is a testament to its commitment to developing the region’s infrastructure. The construction of a new Protocol Lounge and other facilities is expected to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers. With the NCAA’s approval, the airport is now poised to play a more significant role in Nigeria’s aviation sector, providing a vital link between the region and the rest of the country.