The Lagos State Governor , Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that 4,000 hectares of land has been earmarked for the proposed Ibeju-Lekki Airport. He stated that collaboration with federal agencies would lead to better outcomes for the project.
He made the announcement during a meeting with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) organized to seek clarification, discuss Lagos State’s plans, and share their vision for the proposed airport in Ibeju-Lekki.
He recounted that in 2007, Lagos State’s Master Plan included the redesign of the eastern region of the state (Epe), where the concept of an airport emerged as a necessary solution to the challenges posed by having only one airport serving Lagos.
The Governor noted that the idea of an additional airport was first considered in 2008. A feasibility study conducted between 2008 and 2010 concluded that the project was viable. However, due to unforeseen setbacks, progress was delayed.
Reflecting on his five years in office, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted significant developments in the eastern part of Lagos, where several industries have been established.
This growth renewed the State Government’s determination to revisit the airport project. He mentioned that discussions had taken place with the former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who had granted approval for the establishment of an aerodrome in Ibeju-Lekki.
He further explained that the proposed airport is a crucial component of the State’s broader transport master plan.
In response, the Acting Director-General, NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo provided an overview of the project from the NCAA’s perspective, confirming that the Authority had received approval for the project from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
He noted that the Lagos State Government had not yet submitted an official declaration of intent to the NCAA, which is required for the Authority to provide technical guidance and regulatory oversight. In accordance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs), the Lagos State Government must submit this declaration at least 180 days prior to the commencement of construction.
Captain Najomo assured the Governor of the NCAA’s commitment to supporting the project, in line with Nigeria’s ease of doing business policy.
He urged the Lagos State Government to submit the necessary documents to enable the Authority to guide them through the requirements for obtaining the Authority’s approval for the airport’s construction.
The NCAA delegation was led by the Acting Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, accompanied by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engr. Godwin Balang; General Manager, Aerodrome Standards, Engr. Bayode Boluwaji Sunday; and the Airport Certification Team Lead, Dr. Uyiekpen Asuen.
