The Ogun State Government has stepped up plans to begin international passenger services at the Gateway International Airport, starting with Hajj flights to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Authorities say the initiative is part of a broader aviation expansion strategy aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and economic growth.
Officials disclosed that the airport is nearing full operational readiness as a strategic hub for travellers and businesses across Ogun and neighbouring states. The project is also designed to support cargo logistics and international trade across the South-West.
Governor Dapo Abiodun has begun high-level consultations with federal institutions responsible for regulating international aviation operations. The engagements are expected to facilitate approvals required for passenger and cargo services.
Discussions are focused on meeting statutory standards covering airport security systems, specialised workforce deployment, passenger processing infrastructure and full regulatory compliance. Oversight of certification and operational requirements will be handled by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.
To coordinate implementation, the governor appointed Capt. Dapo Olumide, the airport’s Accountable Manager and Aviation Consultant, to lead inter-agency engagements. He has initiated formal consultations with key federal bodies critical to international operations.
These include the Nigeria Immigration Service, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Nigeria Customs Service. The customs delegation was led by B. Mohammed. Additional institutional meetings are ongoing.
The engagements are intended to ensure timely installation of operational systems and deployment of personnel required for international passenger clearance and cargo processing.
State authorities project that the airport will enhance pilgrimage travel logistics, particularly for Hajj operations. The facility is also expected to improve cargo movement and ease market access for investors and commercial operators in Ogun State.
When completed, the airport is positioned to support existing aviation infrastructure in the South-West, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, while strengthening Ogun’s role in aviation-linked trade and logistics.
