Upgrade Of SLA Airport: Makinde’s Legacy Project That Puts Oyo On Global Map

In the heart of Nigeria’s southwest, Oyo State is rapidly transforming into a major economic hub, thanks to the visionary leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde. Among his numerous infrastructural projects, the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into an international airport stands unique as a defining legacy that will transcend generations to come.

This very daring and ambitious development clearly positions Oyo State as not just the pacesetter state but a key player in global commerce, tourism, and investment.

Before Governor Makinde took over reins of power in 2019 as the executive governor of Oyo state, the Ibadan airport now Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, located in Alakia, Ibadan, functioned primarily as a domestic airport with limited commercial activity.

Recognizing the strategic importance of an international airport, the Makinde administration took a bold and daring step to embark on an extensive upgrade, modernizing its facilities to meet global aviation standards.

The transformation includes an expanded runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft, a state-of-the-art terminal, improved cargo-handling facilities, and cutting-edge security and navigation systems.

Upon securing the federal government’s approval for the upgrade, Gover­nor Seyi Makinde’s immediately proceeded to perform the official groundbreaking ceremony for the first phase of the project in September, 2024, just one year into his four year second term in office. This is particularly impressive because Makinde is matching his every word with commensurate action in an era where the Nigerian political landscape has been enmeshed in the idea that second term is ‘time to chop money’ (public funds embezzlement) by most second term governors.

This first phase of the project comprises expansion of the runway from 2,400 metres to 3,000 meters with a width increase from 45 meters to 60 meters.

The appointment of a prominent opposition member, Bimbo Adekanbi, a former Commissioner for finance, who was a key figure in the administration of Makinde’s predecessor, as the chairman of the SLAA Project Committee was another testament to the governor’s inclusivity and transparency in governance, such that was unprecedented in the history of the state by any sitting governor.

At the start of January, 2025, Governor Makinde has not only achieved near 100 percent record of the project’s first phase but has gone ahead immediately to commence the second phase with the laying of foundation for the construction of a new terminal building at the airport with all major stakeholders physically present to witness the landmark ceremony. The second phase, according to Governor Makinde will be completed within 18 months

Adekanbi during his address at the foundation laying ceremony last month disclosed that the new Terminal Building, which will be constructed by Messrs Craneburg Con­struction Ltd, would be a game changer in the Nigeria’s aviation industry when completed.

He explained that rhe Makinde led government has made tre­mendous progress in the first phase of the project, adding that the state-of-the-art Terminal Building that will be delivered in the first quarter of 2026 will accommodate up to one million passengers annual­ly, which he said is a massive increase from the current capacity of 100,000.

In his words: “His Excellency has cham­pioned the development of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Air­port, not just as an infrastruc­tural upgrade, but as a gateway to unlocking the immense eco­nomic potential of Oyo State and the entire Southwest re­gion. His relentless pursuit of progress, coupled with his pro­found commitment to enhanc­ing our state’s connectivity, is embodied in this grand project.

“Governor Makinde’s fore­sight and dedication to ensur­ing a world-class facility for the people of Oyo State stand as an inspiring example of visionary governance.

His tireless work ethic and unwavering focus on sus­tainable development ensure that this airport will become a symbol of progress, pros­perity, and pride for us all.”

Corroborating Adekanbi’s assertions, the Senior Manager of Craneburg Construction, Edmond Maalouf, Project Director of Engineering of FAAN; Engr. Adejare Abiola, and the Site Engineer, Oliver Makhlouf,

in their separate remarks while addressing newsmen during the project inspection tour, main­tained that the project when completed will not only be a spinning source revenue for the state but will tremendously impact on economic and commercial activities within Ibadan metropolis while increasing the value of landed properties around the area.

From all indications so far from the testimonies of experts and stakeholders, these upgrades, when completed, will most certainly open the doors for international airlines, thereby promoting direct connections between Oyo State and major global destinations.

One of the key benefits of this project when completed will be its impact on the state’s economy. By enabling direct international flights, businesses in Oyo State will have easier access to global markets. The airport will serve as a catalyst for trade, attracting direct foreign investors and boosting sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

With Ibadan’s strategic location in the heart of the South West, companies can now bypass the congestion of Lagos ports and airports, opting instead for a more efficient logistics hub in Oyo. The establishment of a Free Trade Zone around the airport by governor Makinde was not only forward thinking but also strategic as it will further enhance its appeal, thereby, providing tax and business-friendly policies that encourage investment.

Also, Oyo State is rich in history and culture, home to landmarks such as the ancient Oyo Empire relics, the Ibadan National Museum, and the famous Bower’s Tower. The international airport when completed, will significantly enhance accessibility to these destinations while attracting tourists from around the world.

In addition, religious tourism will greatly benefit from the upgrade as Ibadan being a cosmopolitan center for many Nigerians of different faiths will be able to take direct flights for their pilgrims and religious trips to both Israel and Saudi Arabia without the hassles of multiple connecting flights.

In term of job creation, the expansion of the SLA Airport will ultimately lead to the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs as it is already being witnessed from construction to airport operations, security, hospitality, and logistics, the project has and will take thousands of Oyo state people out of the labor market, when completed.

The Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport will not just be a regional success story when completed—it will strengthen Nigeria’s overall aviation sector. By reducing pressure on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, it will further offer travelers and businesses an alternative gateway into the country.

The project, even though being executed by the state, it totally aligns with the federal government’s agenda to decentralize aviation infrastructure, encouraging regional development and boosting economic activities beyond Lagos and Abuja.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to infrastructural excellence has no doubt set a new benchmark in governance. His investment in the airport upgrade has reinforced his vision for sustainable economic growth, global connectivity, and improved quality of life for the people of Oyo State.

By transforming a once-underutilized facility into a world-class international airport, Makinde will not only leave a lasting legacy but will also be positioning Oyo State as a major player in global trade and tourism, and as flights will take off and land at the newly international airport, it is evident that Oyo State will no longer just be a regional powerhouse—it will take its firm place on the global map.