Oyo boosts Ibadan Airport upgrade with high-tech vehicle donation

In a significant move to accelerate the transformation of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into a world-class aviation hub, the Oyo State Government has donated a fully equipped, specialised operational vehicle to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

The presentation ceremony, held within the airport premises, underscores the state government’s sustained investment in critical aviation infrastructure aimed at meeting international standards. The vehicle was formally handed over on behalf of the government by the Chairman of the Airport Upgrade Committee, Bimbo Adekanbi.

Speaking during the handover, Adekanbi noted that the newly delivered vehicle is fitted with state-of-the-art communication and operational equipment designed to enhance real-time coordination, strengthen airspace surveillance, and support efficient management of flight operations. He explained that the addition of such modern tools is crucial to ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with global aviation benchmarks.

He further emphasised that the donation reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to the ongoing upgrade project. According to him, the airport has already resumed domestic flight operations, marking a key milestone in the phased redevelopment plan, while construction work on the international terminal and other supporting facilities continues at an accelerated pace.

Adekanbi reiterated that the broader vision of the project is to position Ibadan as a major gateway for both domestic and international travel, thereby boosting economic activities, attracting investment, and improving connectivity within and beyond Nigeria.

Responding on behalf of NAMA, the agency’s manager, Gbenga Famusipe, represented by Olumide Odutayo, commended the Oyo State Government for what he described as a timely and strategic intervention. He noted that the operational vehicle would significantly enhance the agency’s capacity to carry out its duties more efficiently, particularly in areas of airspace monitoring, emergency response, and technical support services.

Famusipe added that improved logistics and equipment, such as the donated vehicle, play a vital role in maintaining high safety standards in aviation, assuring that NAMA would make optimal use of the resource in line with its mandate.

Also present at the event was the Secretary of the Airport Upgrade Committee, Seyi Akinbohun, alongside other stakeholders and officials who witnessed the handover.