Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Tuesday officially commissioned flight operations at the newly built Gateway International Airport, located in Ilisan-Iperu, marking a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure and aviation development.

At exactly 8:55 a.m., Governor Abiodun cut the ceremonial ribbon, formally launching commercial services with ValueJet as the inaugural operator. The first scheduled flight from the airport — a ValueJet service to Abuja — was slated to depart later the same day.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the governor highlighted the speed and scale of the project’s execution:

“The journey that began in 2021, and led to the first aircraft landing here in 2023, has made this one of the fastest-constructed airports in the country.”

He announced the commencement of full commercial operations for both passenger and cargo flights, emphasizing the strategic importance of the airport to the state’s economic growth and logistics capacity.

“We have been deliberate, intentional, and diligent, with unwavering faith in the Almighty God,” Abiodun said. “We have invested everything into this airport, including world-class cargo facilities, advanced security systems, and cutting-edge aviation technology. Our control tower is second to none, and as you can see, this terminal is like no other.”

The commissioning of the Gateway International Airport is expected to enhance connectivity, attract investment, and support regional economic development, positioning Ogun State as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation and logistics sectors.