The Gateway International Agro Cargo Airport, located at Ilishan/Iperu area of Ogun State, which is near completion and a state-of-the- art project appears to be a misplaced priority as potential users of the airport and dwellers of the state have criticized the bad condition of access roads to the facility.
This project which is a testament to the Federal Government’s efforts to boost infrastructure development and economic growth in Nigeria has been said to be important , yet regarded as a white elephant project.
Recently, Captain Dapo Olumide, Managing Director of the airport, during a three-day training tour for journalists who visited Ogun State stated the importance of equipping the airport with the latest industry innovations, emphasising that the facility’s electronic systems are all advanced technology.
He explained that the airport features the most advanced technology not because of abundant funds, but because modern technology reduces long-term operational costs and it’s about efficiency and cost savings. He pointed that the control tower’s radar system can monitor aircraft beyond Lagos, reaching as far as Accra, Yaoundé, and Douala.
According to him, while the physical construction of the airport has been completed, additional installations such as the landing systems, ramp lighting, and a 2-megawatt gas-powered plant are still underway. He revealed that the facility will be staffed by officials from Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) , National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Police, and other agencies to facilitate international flights.
He stated that the airport was created to leverage its proximity to Lagos and to support the state’s ongoing industrialization efforts.
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, also underscored the airport’s strategic location and adherence to global standards.
He explained that many things have been done differently at the new airport as it has the longest runway in Nigeria of 4 kilometers long, making it a Class E airport capable of handling large aircraft like Boeing 777, 747, or Airbus A330. He added that the aircraft parking area covers 82,000 square meters and can accommodate about 20 aircraft at once.
On his X account, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun described the project as one that is ultra-modern.He stated that it will enhance global connectivity, promote infrastructure and generate in come for the state.
“As part of our commitment to transforming Ogun State into a hub of modern infrastructure and global connectivity, we have successfully installed a world-class aerodrome lighting system at the Gateway International Airport. This milestone further elevates the airport’s status as one of the most advanced in Nigeria.
“Equipped with state-of-the-art aviation lighting—including a Category I approach lighting system, runway edge lights, and Precision Approach Path Indicators—the airport is now fully prepared for scheduled local and international flights, day or night. With a Category 9 fire cover, expansive apron space for large cargo aircraft, and premium VIP lounges, the facility is primed for both business and leisure travel.
“The Gateway International Airport is a bold statement of our vision to position Ogun State as Nigeria’s industrial and transportation gateway—connecting our people to jobs, commerce, and global opportunities.
“With a Category 9 fire cover, an expansive apron space capable of accommodating large cargo aircraft, premium VIP lounges, a fully equipped fire service station, and a modern control tower, our facility is fully primed to support both business and leisure travel.” ,he wrote.
Several comments that were made on the post urged the governor of the state to see to the poor state of access roads to the airport before operations begin.
@Bencomusic appreciated the development but requested that Aseese road in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area is fixed.
“Congratulations on this but you are doing the wrong thing at the wrong time.Give us good road at Aseese and stop all this waste of public resources. You have less than 2 years more to stay in office .Use it judiciously.”
@Abayogreat1 is of the opinion that the infrastructure is a good one.He however listed out some of the roads that should be fixed in the state.
“The airport is a good project, but of what value is it to the common man if the roads are extremely bad? Development comes in place when the roads are accessible for all. Iperu, Ijoko -Agbado , Agbado to Akute , Adiyan Gas Line, Lagos -Abeokuta, Oke aro, Ado Odo, Pakoto, Ifo, Iyana Coker, Coker Ibogun roads are all bad.”
Bisi Adeyemi said “How beautiful will this project be if only the roads from Ifo, Ado Odo/Ota LGA are motorable enough to get there. You have done nothing if the roads keep being neglected. Why must you just like your predecessors concentrate on Abeokuta and Ijebu?
“Governor, I will now suggest a quick fix of Lagos-Abeokuta road.It’s going to be a plus.”, Gbenga Emmanuel said.
Taiwo Adebesin stated that he will prefer to continue using the Lagos airport considering the poor state of access roads.
“Until the roads from Lagos to Abeokuta are repaired, this project is and will be a lame project. I, will prefer to continue to travel to Lagos and then take the train through Abeokuta.”
The guy called Isaac, suggested that Governor Abiodun invests in farming and provide financial establishments that will better the lives of the people of the state instead.
“Honestly speaking , this is a project that will favour the populace of Ogun state in the future , but at least can we take care of the pressing issue of the road in Ogun state please? I would have preferred a white elephant project in farming and empowering the people.”
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