The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has decided to close Ibadan Airport for six months, starting in early March, to allow for maintenance and upgrade works.
On Friday, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, confirmed this via his X handle.
He stated: Subject to new information, Ibadan airport may be shut down for six months for maintenance/upgrade, starting from early March.
Government Pushes For International Status
Eight months ago, President Bola Tinubu approved the plan to upgrade Ibadan Airport to international status.
Since then, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that the project will include expanding the runway and upgrading airport facilities to accommodate international flights.
Read Also: Nigeria Absent As Africa Claims 35% Of 2024’s Newly Discovered Oil
By January 2025, Makinde had further demonstrated his commitment by announcing the construction of a new international terminal.
Earlier, on September 18, 2024, he had also led the groundbreaking ceremony for the first phase of the project.
Short-Term Disruptions, Long-Term Benefits
Although the shutdown will cause travel disruptions, officials believe it is a necessary step toward positioning Ibadan as a key international travel hub.
Once they complete the upgrade, the airport will welcome direct international flights, ultimately making travel easier for residents and boosting economic growth in the region.
