Abiodun Makes History with Inaugural Flight from Gateway Airport
Tuesday marked a momentous occasion in Ogun State as the inaugural commercial flight departed from the newly commissioned Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Remo, bound for Abuja.
The flight, operated by Value Jet Airline, took off at exactly 10:02 a.m., carrying its first set of passengers to the Federal Capital Territory.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, speaking to journalists after the takeoff, described the event as a significant milestone in his administration’s efforts to position Ogun as a hub for investment and economic growth.
He emphasized that the airport is a key element of the state’s multi-modal transportation master plan, which aims to integrate road, rail, air, and water transport systems to enhance trade, tourism, and industrial development.
“It’s a proud moment to witness commercial aviation operations begin in Ogun State,” the governor said. “This is not a simulation, it’s real. We started this journey in 2021, and despite skepticism, we’ve proven what vision, commitment, and hard work can achieve.”
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to God for the realisation of the project and acknowledged the support of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and security agencies for their roles in the airport’s certification and approval process.
He noted that the Gateway International Airport is expected to catalyze investment inflows, generate employment, and improve regional connectivity.
He also thanked the people of Ogun State for their continued support, highlighting the transformation of the state into a preferred destination for investors.
Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, shared his excitement, saying, “I’m thrilled that this is happening under a government I’m proud to be part of. The convenience and economic benefits are immense—I no longer need to travel to Lagos to catch a flight.”
State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, described the launch as a historic achievement and a major step toward economic advancement.
Senator Shuaib Salis, representing Ogun Central, echoed the sentiment, stating, “There’s nothing more fulfilling than boarding a flight from your own state, at an airport built by your government, on an aircraft operated by a fellow indigene. This is history in the making.”
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