FG approves temporal closure of Ibadan airport for upgrade

By Adejayan Gbenga

The federal government has approved the temporary closure of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, for facility upgrades.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

The statement explained that the closure was necessary to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and ensure the safety of passengers and personnel.

It partly reads: “The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has closed the runway and the airport in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations.

“As part of the Oyo State government’s initiative to upgrade Ibadan Airport from a domestic to an international airport, various improvements and remodeling works are currently underway.

“In compliance with aviation safety standards and procedures, the closure has become imperative to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel.”

Meanwhile, FAAN appealed to airport users and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation during the period.