With a view to making Ibadan, the Oyo State capital the business hub of South West region, Governor Seyi Makinde has officially flagged off the N41bn upgrade of the Ibadan airport, renamed Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport.
Speaking at the the ground-breaking ceremony for the project held at the airport premises in Ibadan, Makinde said his administration is focused on eradicating poverty in the state saying tye airport is an investment in the future.
Disclosing that the project is expected to be completed within a year, the governor noted that the project has been prioritised by his government since 2019, emphasising his commitment to transforming Ibadan into a regional business hub in the Yoruba region.
The governor stressed that the vision of his administration is fighting poverty and not the poor, admitting that there is hardship in the country of which the project, when completed, would partly contribute in tackling.
Governor Makinde posited that the airline initiative would enhance transportation and attract businesses, tourists, and investors to the region.
For the governor, the upgrade would facilitate modern touch to the airport, of which is essential for connecting the state to the global economy and drawing economic activities to Oyo.
According to him, the airport upgrade will cost N41 billion and that it is expected to enhance air travel operations and provide a reliable transportation network for both business and leisure travelers, positioning the state for economic growth and development.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who was the special guest at the event, described Makinde as one who actualises development projects.
He expressed willingness to collaborate with the state to explore mutually beneficial opportunities for both states.
Governor Adeleke reiterated his assurance to completing the 12 years Osun Airport project which his administration inherited, saying it would soon become a reality.