Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria – October 7, 2025
In a major development for the South-West region, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially approved the commencement of commercial flight operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. The approval marks a turning point in Ekiti State’s economic transformation agenda and is expected to position the state as a hub for agricultural exports, logistics, and regional trade connectivity.
The announcement was confirmed on Tuesday following formal communication between the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Ekiti State Government, granting full operational clearance for both passenger and cargo flights.
A Milestone in Ekiti’s Infrastructure Development
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, located on the outskirts of Ado-Ekiti, was conceived as a flagship infrastructure project designed to support the state’s growing agricultural and industrial sectors. The facility, which has undergone multiple phases of construction and inspection, is now fully certified for commercial operations after meeting the necessary safety and regulatory standards set by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The airport’s commissioning and recent approval signify the completion of a project that began with a vision to link Ekiti’s agricultural economy with national and international markets. With the Federal Government’s green light, airlines and cargo operators can now commence regular flight schedules, enhancing access to both domestic and global destinations.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, in a statement celebrating the development, described the approval as “a historic breakthrough for Ekiti State and a fulfillment of years of visionary planning and investment.”
“This airport is more than an aviation facility — it is a gateway to prosperity,” Oyebanji said. “The Federal Government’s approval to begin commercial operations will stimulate investment, create jobs, and connect Ekiti to major economic centers across the world.”
From Vision to Reality
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport project was initially launched to promote agricultural export and reduce post-harvest losses through faster and safer transportation of perishable goods. The facility is equipped with modern runways, cargo terminals, cold storage facilities, and passenger lounges built to international standards.
Construction of the airport began under the administration of former Governor Kayode Fayemi and continued under Governor Oyebanji, who prioritized its completion and certification. The airport has already hosted test flights by the Nigerian Air Force and several private aircraft, demonstrating its operational readiness.
With the new approval, major domestic airlines such as Air Peace, Ibom Air, and ValueJet are reportedly in talks with the state government to begin scheduled passenger flights to key destinations like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt.
Economic Prospects and Regional Impact
The approval of commercial operations is expected to accelerate Ekiti’s economic diversification agenda, boosting agriculture, logistics, trade, tourism, and real estate. Analysts have described the airport as a “game changer” for the South-West region, particularly for landlocked states that previously depended on airports in Akure, Ibadan, or Lagos for air transport.
According to aviation experts, the airport’s cargo capacity could open up export opportunities for local producers of cocoa, cashew, cassava, fruits, vegetables, and other agro-commodities. With the global rise in demand for organic produce, Ekiti’s farmers stand to benefit from faster access to export markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Dr. Olufemi Ajayi, an economist and development consultant, noted that the airport’s operation will serve as a magnet for investment.
“Ekiti is strategically positioned as a center of agricultural excellence. Having an operational cargo airport means investors can now set up agro-processing industries closer to production sites,” Ajayi said. “This development will reduce logistics costs, encourage export-oriented farming, and expand the state’s internally generated revenue base.”
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The Ekiti Cargo Airport is strategically linked to major highways connecting Ado-Ekiti to Akure, Ibadan, and Abuja, facilitating seamless transportation of goods between the airport and other parts of the country. The airport’s design includes dedicated cargo handling zones, warehousing facilities, customs offices, and space for aviation-related businesses.
Officials from the Ministry of Aviation confirmed that the airport met all technical and safety requirements necessary for flight operations, including runway lighting, navigation aids, and emergency response systems. The approval was granted following a series of inspections and airfield tests conducted by the NCAA.
“The airport has met all regulatory benchmarks required for the commencement of flight operations,” said a senior aviation official. “It has the capacity to handle both passenger and cargo traffic safely and efficiently.”
Boost for Tourism and Local Businesses
Beyond agriculture, the airport’s operation is expected to drive growth in tourism and hospitality. Ekiti, known for its natural attractions such as the Ikogosi Warm Springs, Arinta Waterfalls, and Olosunta Hills, will now become more accessible to both local and international tourists.
Hotels, transport operators, and other small businesses are expected to benefit from increased movement of people and goods into the state.
For the youth population, the airport’s operation opens new employment opportunities in aviation services, ground handling, logistics, maintenance, and hospitality. The Ekiti State Government has already indicated plans to collaborate with aviation schools and training centers to build local capacity for technical and managerial roles.
Federal–State Collaboration
The Federal Government’s approval followed extensive collaboration between the Ministry of Aviation and the Ekiti State Government. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, praised the Ekiti Government’s commitment to meeting international aviation standards and aligning the airport’s vision with the national transport master plan.
“The Ekiti Agro-Allied Cargo Airport aligns with our goal of expanding aviation infrastructure across Nigeria,” Keyamo stated. “It represents a sustainable model of how subnational governments can complement federal efforts to grow the economy through air transport.”
The collaboration also includes plans for future expansion of the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, an export processing zone, and aviation-related industries.
Linking Agriculture with Aviation
The Ekiti Agro-Allied Airport is the first of its kind in Nigeria to be primarily conceived for agricultural exports. The facility’s cargo terminal includes a cold storage and processing unit that allows for the preservation and packaging of fresh produce for international shipment.
Experts believe the model can serve as a blueprint for other states looking to merge agriculture with aviation to maximize export potential. With the increasing global demand for fresh produce, particularly from Africa, the airport’s operation could help position Nigeria as a leading player in the agro-export market.
Mr. Tunde Ogunleye, an agro-exporter based in Ado-Ekiti, expressed optimism that the approval would solve long-standing logistics challenges faced by farmers and exporters.
“Before now, we had to move our produce to Lagos or Ibadan for shipment, which was costly and time-consuming. With this approval, we can ship directly from Ekiti to our international buyers,” he said.
Community Development and Environmental Impact
The airport’s establishment has also contributed to local development, with new access roads, electricity, and water infrastructure constructed in surrounding communities. The project has created hundreds of direct and indirect jobs during construction and is expected to generate thousands more as operations begin.
The Ekiti State Government has emphasized that environmental sustainability remains a priority, noting that the airport’s design includes eco-friendly systems and waste management protocols to minimize its carbon footprint.
Looking Ahead
As commercial operations begin, Ekiti State is already setting its sights on attracting partnerships with international cargo operators, logistics companies, and investors interested in agro-processing and export businesses.
The Federal Government’s approval represents a validation of the state’s commitment to infrastructure-driven growth and its strategic goal of transforming Ekiti into a logistics and investment hub within the South-West region.
Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed that the airport would serve as a catalyst for inclusive development, connecting Ekiti’s farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to new opportunities.
“This approval marks the beginning of a new chapter for our people,” he said. “We are ready to leverage this infrastructure to create jobs, attract investors, and build an economy that truly works for everyone.”
Conclusion
With the Federal Government’s approval now in place, the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is set to open its runways to commercial flights, heralding a new era of economic expansion and connectivity.
For Ekiti State — once perceived as an agrarian enclave — the airport’s operation signals a bold leap into industrialization, trade integration, and global relevance. The take-off of commercial flights is not just about aviation; it is about unlocking the full potential of Ekiti’s people, land, and enterprise for generations to come.
