History has been made with the official landing of the maiden test flights into the Ogun State Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport at Iperu-Ilishan Road, Ikene local government in Ogun State on Thursday, February 23rd, 2023.

First maiden flight at Gateway International Airport

The first private aircraft landed at 2.15 pm and was received by the Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, who were on ground to assess the state’s readiness for full operation, as well as the people of the state, who had earlier trooped in, to witness the occasion.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo, also arrived at the airport in an aircraft which touched down at 2:57 and were received by Governor Dapo Abiodun, former Governors Segun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole and traditional rulers, including the Akarigbo of Remonland Awujale of Ijebu, represented by the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Governor Dapo Abiodun and their wives and other dignitaries

Sited on 500 hectares of land at Iperu in the Ikenne Local Government Area of the state, the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport comes with standard features like a runway, control tower, terminal, administrative block, and fire station, among others.

The airport which was conceptualised in 2009 with construction work beginning in April 2021, is expected to stimulate the state’s economy.

“The impact of the airport would stimulate the growth of other sectors such as commerce and agriculture as well as tourism opportunities,” Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Engr. Ade Akinsanya said in a statement.

Story: Christy Dung

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