Nigerian Government Shuts Ibadan Airport for Upgrade to International Standards
The Federal Government, through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has announced the temporary closure of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, to facilitate extensive upgrade works aimed at enhancing infrastructure and operational standards. The closure, which took effect on Sunday, is part of efforts to transform the airport from a domestic facility to an international hub.
In a statement issued by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, the authority explained that the closure was necessary to enable the execution of critical improvements at the airport. “The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the temporary closure of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport (SLAA), Ibadan, due to ongoing upgrade works. As part of the Oyo State Government’s initiative to upgrade Ibadan Airport from a domestic to an international airport, various improvements and remodelling works are currently underway,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has consequently closed the runway and suspended airport operations in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations. FAAN emphasized that the upgrade aligns with the Oyo State Government’s vision to elevate the airport to international status, improving its capacity to handle increased passenger traffic and larger aircraft.
“In compliance with aviation safety recommended standards and processes, the closure became imperative to ensure the safety of passengers as well as airport personnel,” FAAN added. The authority assured the public that the upgrade would enhance the airport’s facilities, including its runway, terminal buildings, and navigational aids, to meet global standards.
The temporary closure of the Ibadan airport is expected to impact air travel in the region, as passengers and airlines will need to seek alternative routes during the upgrade period. However, FAAN has pledged to work closely with stakeholders to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth transition once the upgrade is completed.
The transformation of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into an international facility is part of broader efforts by the Oyo State Government to boost economic development and attract foreign investment. The upgraded airport is expected to serve as a gateway to the southwestern region of Nigeria, facilitating trade, tourism, and connectivity with global destinations.
The closure underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, which has faced criticism in recent years for outdated facilities and operational challenges. The upgrade of the Ibadan airport is seen as a step toward addressing these issues and improving the overall passenger experience.
As work progresses, stakeholders in the aviation sector and the general public will be keenly watching the developments at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport. The successful completion of the upgrade could set a precedent for similar projects at other domestic airports across the country, contributing to the growth and modernization of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The temporary closure of the Ibadan airport highlights the importance of infrastructure development in driving economic growth and improving connectivity. While the upgrade may cause short-term inconveniences, the long-term benefits of a modern, international-standard airport are expected to outweigh the challenges, positioning Ibadan as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
