We will upgrade Ibadan Airport in 18 months – Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said the Oyo State Government under his leadership will achieve the upgrade of Ibadan Airport in 18 months, stating that the State has resources to drive the project.

Governor Makinde’s policy statement came barely a month after President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade of Ibadan Domestic Airport located at Alakia in the State Capital to the International Airport.

The governor said this on Wednesday at the Hijrah 1446 luncheon organised by the State Government held at the Presidential Lodge, Secretariat, Ibadan, stating that he would announce a committee that will steer the vision to turn the facility to an international standard before the end of the week.

Governor Makinde assured that before the end of his tenure Hajj pilgrims would be airlifted from Ibadan Airport to the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia.

Read also: Our efforts to upgrade Ibadan Airport on course – Makinde

He however used the opportunity to call on the people of the State to strive for a new Oyo State where love, unity and peace would reign, irrespective of religious differences, stressing that his Administration would continue to do things in the interest of the people and the development of the State.

Noting that there are challenges both in the State and the Country as a whole, Governor Makinde assured that with people’s support, the challenges facing Nigerians and Nigeria would be surmounted.

He said: “We thank God for sustaining our lives till today. We appreciate him for a new beginning. The significance of a new year means we should also, as humans, begin new things.

“Today is a day for celebration because we already observed the Hijrah holiday before now. Part of the things we want you to be doing is to wipe the slate clean and start a new beginning, especially in Oyo State.

Read also: Airlifting of passengers to Hajj next year at Ibadan Airport feasible, says GM

“There are a lot of challenges we are facing as a nation and as a state but I have the assurance that we will surmount those challenges.

“Please, support this government. I came to you to beg to apply and you made up your mind to give me the opportunity to serve the state. I will forever remain grateful for the opportunity.

“Many people wanted the same opportunity but could not get it. They had the money to buy it but you didn’t sell it. You all came together irrespective of religious leanings to give us this opportunity and I will, forever, cherish it.

“This is a responsible government and it is your government and we will always do things in the best interest of Oyo State.
“Before the end of this week, I will make announcement on the committee that will champion the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport.
I am more than confident now that before my tenure ends, those going for Hajj operation will take off from Ibadan to Mecca and Medina.

“When I make the announcement on or before Friday, I will give them 18 months to complete everything, because we have the money to make it happen. So, my message for us is to strive for a new Oyo State where love, unity and peace will reign supreme.”