History was made in Ekiti State yesterday as Governor Biodun Oyebanji led state dignitaries to receive the first commercial flight at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado Ekiti.
A United Nigeria Airline aircraft, registration number 5N-BWY, carrying approximately 50 passengers, arrived at the airport at about 11:09 a.m. and departed for Lagos at 12:00 noon.
Oyebanji described the event as a major milestone in the state’s pursuit of economic growth and enhanced connectivity.
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Speaking at the historic event, Oyebanji disclosed that a total sum of ₦49.7 billion had been expended directly by the state government on the project’s execution.
He noted that the investment reflects the state’s commitment to critical infrastructure designed to attract investors and create jobs.
The governor stressed that the airport is strategically designed to support the export of agro-produce, boost value chains, and reduce post-harvest losses for farmers.
He added that the new air link will open Ekiti to global opportunities in agriculture, commerce, and tourism.
The maiden flight underscored a theme of political continuity, as the passengers included current and former leaders such as Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, three former Governors of the State, Kayode Fayemi, Niyi Adebayo, and Ayodele Fayose and members of the National Assembly from state.
Oyebanji commended his predecessors, Segun Oni, who first conceived the idea; Fayose, who acquired and cleared the site; and Fayemi, who commenced construction, for their roles.
He said the completion of the project is a testimony to our collective determination.
The governor also expressed profound appreciation to the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Afe Babalola, for his selflessness, generosity and unflinching support.
Babalola made two major contributions: donation of navigational aids (CVOR/DME) and control tower equipment worth $1.6 million and construction of a 100-car capacity car park at the cost of ₦356 million.
Oyebanji also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support, stating that his economic reforms freed resources for sub-nationals to finance such projects.
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In his remarks, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Yakubu Adam, described the event as the beginning of new possibilities, economic pathways and a new era for the state.
The Chairman of United Nigeria Airline, Obiora Okonkwo, expressed gratitude for the partnership and assured residents that the airline plans to eventually offer direct flights from Ekiti to other state capitals aside from Lagos and Abuja.
