The Traffic

Ibadan Airport Set to Launch International Flights by June 2026

By Achimi Muktar

In a bold leap toward global connectivity, the Oyo State Government has announced that Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, will officially begin international flight operations by June 2026. Yes — Ibadan is going international, and the countdown has begun.

The major announcement came via a statement issued in Ibadan by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who revealed that construction of the new international terminal is already underway — currently 15% complete — with full-scale international operations projected to launch in less than two years.

Massive Upgrades to Meet Global Aviation Standards

According to Oyelade, the state government is pulling out all the stops to ensure that the airport upgrade meets international aviation standards. This includes extending the runway from 2,400 metres to 3,000 metres and widening it from 45 metres to 60 metres — an essential move to accommodate wide-body aircraft typically used for international travel.

Safety infrastructure is also getting a major facelift. The airfield lighting has been upgraded to CAT C, while firefighting capabilities have been enhanced to meet international safety requirements. Facilities for key agencies such as Customs, Immigration, and other border control services are being installed, ensuring a smooth and secure entry and exit process for passengers.

Domestic Flights Set to Resume Before the Year Ends

In the short term, locals won’t have to wait long before the runway sees action. Domestic flight operations are expected to resume by the end of this year, with major components like the runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads already 55% complete.

“These upgrades will enable us to resume domestic flights once regulatory approvals are in place,” Oyelade assured. “By improving our infrastructure, we enhance domestic travel and prepare the groundwork for international operations.”

From Regional to Global: The Bigger Picture

Located in Alakia, just outside the bustling city of Ibadan, Ladoke Akintola International Airport is poised to become a central hub in Nigeria’s aviation landscape. The first phase of the airport’s transformation began in September 2024, when Governor Seyi Makinde flagged off the ambitious runway extension project.

To fast-track the work, the airport was temporarily closed in March 2025. The construction of a brand-new international terminal, led by Messrs Craneburg Construction Ltd, is now underway.

When completed, the revamped airport is expected to ease passenger traffic, boost cargo handling, and attract major international carriers, significantly enhancing Oyo State’s economy and positioning Ibadan as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics network.

Governor Makinde’s Vision in Action

Governor Seyi Makinde’s push to modernize the Ibadan airport is just one part of his broader infrastructure agenda aimed at accelerating economic growth across the state. The move is being hailed as a strategic step toward turning Ibadan into a regional powerhouse, with ripple effects expected in tourism, commerce, and investment.

With domestic flights set to return soon and international flights on the horizon, all eyes are now on Ibadan. The sky is no longer the limit — it’s just the beginning.