Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said that his administration’s ongoing upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to international standard is part of a deliberate effort to position the state as a major player in aviation and economic development.
The governor made this known on Wednesday while hosting members of the Women in Aviation International, Nigeria Chapter, who are in Ibadan for their annual conference themed “Connect, Engage, Inspire.”
The event, which runs from November 4 to 7, held at the Western Hall of the Parliament Building, Secretariat, Agodi.
Makinde, represented by his deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, praised the women for their contributions to aviation, describing their professionalism and resilience as vital to the industry’s progress.
He said their decision to bring the conference to Ibadan reflected confidence in Oyo State’s growing relevance in aviation affairs.
According to him, the state’s plan to upgrade the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport goes beyond physical infrastructure, it is about building a hub that connects Oyo to the rest of the world.
“The aviation industry is global by nature. Planes don’t just fly within borders; they connect nations. That’s why we’re determined to ensure that Oyo State becomes a centre for both local and international air travel,” he said.
Makinde added that the decision was also inspired by Ibadan’s historical place in Nigeria’s aviation story, being home to the country’s first aerodrome.
He said the project was part of his administration’s long term vision to use strategic infrastructure as a catalyst for investment and tourism.
“When the upgrade is completed, aircraft will be able to take off from Ibadan to any part of the world. That’s the level of ambition we’re pursuing,” he said, while assuring that the government would continue to support initiatives that promote inclusion and growth, especially those led by women.
The governor also announced that the state government was sponsoring the conference to reaffirm its commitment to the aviation sector and to strengthen partnerships with professional bodies like Women in Aviation International.
In her remarks, the association’s president, Dr. (Mrs.) Rejoice Ndudinachi, commended Governor Makinde for his consistent support and for hosting the conference in Ibadan.
She said the event was more than a professional gathering noting that it was a platform to inspire collaboration, empower young women and build capacity for the future of aviation in Nigeria.
She noted that the group would work with the Oyo State Government to develop projects in education, youth empowerment, and STEM training, while expanding mentorship and scholarship opportunities for women and girls interested in aviation and aerospace.
The event was attended by several top officials, including the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry and Cooperatives, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi; Commissioner for Works and Transport, Hon. Mojeed Mogbonjubola; and the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.