The Oyo State Government has taken a fresh step to boost airspace management and support vital aviation infrastructure at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Alakia, Ibadan. In a move to modernise the facility, the government presented a well-equipped specialised vehicle to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
This vehicle, which features a full communication system, is a key part of the ongoing Ibadat Airport upgrade. The state aims to transform the current site into a fully functional international airport.
Enhancing Airside Safety and Communication
Honourable Bimbo Adekanmbi, Chairman of the Airport Upgrade Committee, presented the vehicle at the airport runway. He noted that the tech-heavy vehicle will improve how the agency manages the local airspace.
“As part of the commitment of His Excellency, the Governor, and the Government of Oyo State to the continued upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, we are presenting this vehicle,” Adekanmbi stated.
He further explained the technical importance of the donation:
“It is a specialised vehicle and fully kitted. It has all the communication aids and it is going to aid the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and their work.”
A Path to International Status
The Ibadan Airport upgrade is not just about equipment; it is about expanding capacity. Adekanmbi confirmed that while local flights have already resumed, work continues on the international terminal.
He stressed that NAMA plays a vital role in this transition. “NAMA has a critical function to perform at the airport because they are the ones that grant access to the airside, and this vehicle will be speaking to the instrument landing system and all critical aviation infrastructure.”
Commitment to Completion
The state government remains focused on finishing the international terminal to allow for global flight operations.
Adekanmbi added, “This vehicle donation goes to show our commitment, and we are still continuing. The airside and local flights are ongoing, and we are committed to delivering the international terminal and for international operations to resume after the construction of the terminal.”
Responding to the gesture, NAMA Manager Mr. Gbenga Famosipe, represented by Mr. Olumide Odutayo, thanked the governor. He noted that the new vehicle would directly improve operational safety at the facility.
