The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has praised the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti, describing its runway as world-class and commending the overall quality of work done on the facility.
Keyamo, who arrived at the airport on Monday at 5:15 PM to a ceremonial water salute, stated during a press briefing that the airport is fully equipped and ready to commence operations.
The minister noted that while the airport is prepared, the launch of commercial flight services would follow the global standard practice of starting with non-scheduled flights. This phase, which allows private jets to test the facilities, will span six months before large-scale commercial operations begin.
“What we have approved for now is for the first six months to conduct non-scheduled flights. This is the standard procedure worldwide to test the facilities before allowing commercial airlines with large passenger volumes,” Keyamo said.
Highlighting the aeronautical readiness of the airport, he stated, “The quality of the runway here can be compared to any runway in the world. The aeronautical side is absolutely ready, and I am impressed by what I’ve seen.”
The Minister emphasized the airport’s importance in supporting Ekiti State’s robust agribusiness sector, expressing confidence that it would compete favorably with similar facilities worldwide.
The Minister’s visit came shortly after the National Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) completed calibration of the airport’s landing equipment, a critical step in operational readiness.
Keyamo was welcomed by top government officials, including Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Kolawole Ajobiewe; and Special Adviser on the Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd).
The Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Airport is poised to become a significant hub for agricultural exports, boosting the state’s economy and creating a pathway for global trade.
