Olubadan Coronation: Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport Receives First Flight Ahead of Tinubu’s Visit

September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 National 0 Comments

…As Aircraft from presidential advance team lands safely ahead of Tinubu’s visit for Olubadan coronation

The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan marked a major milestone on Wednesday as it received its first aircraft since being closed in March 2025 for an upgrade to international standards.

The arriving aircraft, part of the presidential advance team, touched down at exactly 9:14 a.m., signaling the airport’s operational readiness ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Ibadan on Friday, September 26. The President is expected to attend the coronation ceremony of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The successful landing is seen as a significant endorsement of the airport’s enhanced infrastructure, confirming its capacity to handle high-profile and international-standard flights safely and efficiently.

This flight marks a key milestone for the Oyo State Government’s ambitious airport upgrade project. The initiative, spearheaded by Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, began with a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2024. At the time, Governor Makinde emphasized that the project would connect Oyo State to global markets and improve regional mobility.

“The upgrade of the airport is expected to enhance air travel operations and provide a reliable transportation network for both business and leisure travelers,” Makinde had said. “This positions the state for significant economic growth and development.”

In addition to runway and infrastructure improvements, the Makinde administration has already completed upgrades to the airport’s VIP lounge, installed a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility, and provided a new fire truck to enhance safety operations.

With the arrival of the first aircraft and the upcoming presidential visit, officials say the airport is now poised to resume full operations, reinforcing Ibadan’s growing status as a strategic aviation and economic hub in Nigeria.