The Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan is set to resume domestic flight operations by the end of 2025, with full international flight services scheduled to commence in 2026, according to the Oyo State Government.
This development comes as the state intensifies renovation efforts to upgrade the facility to international aviation standards. The airport, which was temporarily closed in March 2025 to facilitate the upgrade, has undergone significant infrastructural improvements.
Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that critical components of the project—such as the extension and widening of the runway—are nearing completion. The runway is being extended from 2,400 to 3,000 meters and widened from 45 to 60 meters to accommodate wide-body aircraft suitable for long-haul international flights.
“Runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pad construction are currently at 55 percent completion and will be ready before year-end,” Oyelade stated. He added that domestic operations will resume shortly after, pending clearance from aviation regulatory authorities.
Upgrades also include a modern airfield lighting system now compliant with CAT C standards and enhanced firefighting and emergency response systems. Oyelade emphasized that facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other international regulatory bodies are being installed to meet global protocols.
The commissioner noted that the international terminal, which is currently at 15 percent completion, is projected to be finished by June 2026.
“These upgrades reflect the state government’s vision to transform the Ibadan Airport into a modern and internationally competitive facility,” Oyelade said. “By enhancing our infrastructure to accommodate larger aircraft, we are not only improving domestic connectivity but also paving the way for global travel.”
He also reaffirmed Governor Seyi Makinde’s promise that next year’s Hajj pilgrimage will commence with a direct flight from the upgraded Ibadan airport.
The project was formally launched on September 18, 2024, as part of the administration’s broader strategy to position Ibadan as a major aviation and economic hub in Nigeria.
