Olubadan Hails Makinde On Ibadan Airport

Olubadan Hails Makinde On Ibadan Airport

Ibadan, Nigeria - The management of Ibadan Airport has announced a cheering development that is set to transform the facility into an international airport, paving the way for airlifting people going on pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia (Mecca) for the Hajj programme next year. This exciting news was well-received by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who commended Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for his exceptional efforts in improving the airport and making it suitable for international flights.

The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), led by Chief Adedeji Afolabi, the General Manager overseeing the Alakia, Ibadan Airport, paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan at his Alarere residence to convey the news. In a press statement released by the Olubadan's Personal Assistant (Media), Oladele Ogunsola, Oba Balogun expressed his happiness and gratitude for the long-awaited transformation of the airport into an international hub. He thanked Governor Makinde for his visionary and focused efforts, which have made this dream a reality.

Oba Balogun also acknowledged the past contributions of Ibadan sons and daughters who had served in various government roles, both at the state and national levels, and had worked towards achieving international status for the airport. Their efforts were not in vain, as the current developments prove that progress is being made.

Addressing the Airport GM, the Olubadan said, "I cannot thank the governor enough for this visionary and focused efforts. May the Almighty Allah continue to guide and guard him. I implore you to ensure that whatever it is that will make your report a reality is done, and the gods of our land will support you and make it part of your achievement."

Chief Adedeji Afolabi, in his remarks, expressed happiness over the positive transformations witnessed at the Ibadan Airport. He acknowledged Governor Makinde's substantial financial commitment to upgrading the airport to international standards, which included the expansion of essential facilities and the dualization of the access road, adorned with street lights. These improvements not only beautified the airport but also enhanced the safety and security of prospective air passengers.

"We owe the governor a huge gratitude," the GM added. He also revealed that if everything goes according to plan, the next pilgrimage exercise to Saudi Arabia would take place at the Ibadan Airport.

The visit to the Olubadan was a gesture of respect, with the FAAN management team seeking his blessings as the owner of the land. In attendance to receive the team alongside the Olubadan were notable figures such as the Osi-Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole, Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, Asiwaju Oloja General of Oyo State, Chief Julianah Raimi, and former Chief Judge of the state, Mrs. Badejoko Adeniji.

As Ibadan residents celebrate this milestone, they look forward to the airport's continued growth and its forthcoming international status, which will undoubtedly bring numerous benefits to the city and the state of Oyo. The success story of Ibadan Airport stands as a testament to Governor Seyi Makinde's commitment to developing infrastructure that will positively impact the lives of the people he serves.