The Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan is on course to begin international operations by June 2026, following a major upgrade spearheaded by the Oyo State Government.
The state’s Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the progress, revealing that construction of the international terminal has reached 15% completion. The extensive redevelopment is part of the government’s broader effort to bring the airport up to international aviation standards.
Key components of the overhaul include a significant extension of the airport’s runway—from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters—and its expansion from 45 meters to 60 meters, making it suitable for wide-body aircraft. Upgrades also include a Category C airfield lighting system and improved fire and emergency response capabilities.
Supporting infrastructure is also being established, with facilities for Nigeria’s Customs and Immigration services under development. Meanwhile, work on the runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads is now more than halfway done, at 55% completion.
Local flight operations are expected to resume by the end of 2025, pending approval from aviation authorities. The airport was temporarily closed in March 2025 to fast-track construction after the upgrade project was officially launched in September 2024.
The state government sees this initiative as a crucial step toward strengthening regional connectivity and making Ibadan a hub for both domestic and international air travel.
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