Commercial Flights Begin At Ekiti Airport
Ekiti State made history on Wednesday as commercial flight operations officially took off at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport in Ado-Ekiti, marking a major step in the state’s push for development.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji led top government officials to receive the first flight.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving the needed support that helped the state complete the airport project, saying Ekiti has invested over N49 billion in the facility so far.
Oyebanji also hailed Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, for donating key navigational equipment worth $1.6 million, including the CVOR/DME and control tower systems. The legal icon also built a 100-car capacity park valued at N356.7 million.
The Governor said the launch of commercial flights has changed the story of Ekiti, turning a long-standing challenge into economic opportunity. He equally praised former Governor Kayode Fayemi for his consistency and commitment to the airport project.
Executive Director of CCECC Nigeria Ltd., John Zhao, described the airport as a big achievement for both CCECC and Nigeria, noting that the project moved from “bare land to a fully operational aviation hub” under the Renewed Hope agenda.
He said the airport will drive jobs, logistics, tourism, exports and new investments into Ekiti, adding that CCECC remains committed to aviation development in Nigeria.
Oyebanji also appreciated the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his support and push towards the completion of the project.
The inaugural flight of United Nigeria Airlines (UN 0622) from Abuja landed at exactly 11:00 a.m. in Ado-Ekiti. It had on board former Governors Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Ayo Fayose, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Hon. Femi Bamisile, Hon. Akin Rotimi, among others.
A second flight to Lagos immediately followed, carrying students from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
A journalist with a speciality in politics, judiciary, and investigation for in-depth stories as a correspondent, among others. He covers all segments of Ekiti State, providing a platform for the people to air their views on issues affecting them.
