Ibadan’s Ladoke Akintola airport to resume local flights by year-end
Local flights at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, are set to resume operations by the end of this year, according to a statement from the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade.
The announcement was made on Monday in Ibadan, the state capital.
Oyelade emphasized that significant upgrades are currently in progress to elevate the airport to an International standard, with plans for full operations to begin in 2026. Among the notable upgrades are the extension of the runway from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters and its widening from 45 to 60 meters, enabling the airport to accommodate larger, wide-body aircraft for international flights.
“Our ongoing upgrades reflect the government’s vision of transforming Ibadan Airport into a modern and internationally competitive facility,” stated Oyelade. He mentioned that the airfield lighting system has been updated to CAT C standards and improvements in fire-fighting response protocols have been implemented to enhance safety measures.
Facilities are being organized for Customs, Immigration, and other critical agencies to ensure compliance with international regulatory standards. Currently, the project’s runway upgrade, along with the construction of the apron, taxiway, and blast pads, is at 55% completion, with a projected finish before year-end, pending approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
“The construction of the International Terminal is at 15% completion and will be ready by June 2026 for such flights,” added Oyelade.
He also reiterated a commitment from Governor Seyi Makinde, stating that the next Hajj flight to Saudi Arabia will commence from this airport in the coming year.
The PUNCH reports that the upgrade project for the airport was officially launched on September 18, 2024, and was temporarily closed in March 2025 to expedite the ongoing renovations.
Source: PUNCH
