The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the temporary closure of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan, to facilitate critical upgrade works aimed at improving infrastructure and operational standards.
FAAN, in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, on Sunday, disclosed that the Federal Government approved the closure to enable essential renovations at the airport.
Following the directive, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has suspended airport operations and closed the runway in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations.
The statement noted that the upgrade is part of the Oyo State Government’s broader plan to elevate the airport to international standards.
“In compliance with aviation safety recommendations and processes, the closure became necessary to ensure the safety of passengers as well as airport personnel,” FAAN stated.
While the timeline for the completion of the upgrade was not disclosed, FAAN urged stakeholders and passengers to cooperate during the period of closure, assuring that the enhancements will improve airport safety, efficiency, and passenger experience.