The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to install an Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti, with an investment of nearly N4.6 billion. The project, set for completion before the end of the year, is aimed at enabling 24-hour flight operations and ensuring planes can land even in extreme weather conditions.
Once completed, the facility will make Ado Airport the second in Southwest Nigeria, after Lagos, to have such an advanced landing system.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji disclosed this development during the March edition of his monthly media chat, “Meet Your Governor.” He emphasized that the initiative is part of his administration’s broader strategy to transform the airport into a major economic hub, attract more airlines, and enhance competitiveness. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning the airport as a preferred destination for air travel and cargo transport, noting that the ILS would be a game-changer in achieving this goal.
In addition to the ILS installation, Oyebanji revealed that the state government is in discussions with three major airlines to boost commercial flight operations at the airport. He expressed confidence that at least two of these airlines would soon commence operations, thereby improving travel access, promoting tourism, and facilitating the export of agricultural produce. The Governor also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the construction of a cargo shed to support agro-allied businesses and enhance the airport’s functionality.
Furthering its modernization efforts, the government has partnered with a vendor to establish a hangar for airport services. The Governor credited Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele’s advocacy for securing budgetary approval for the cargo shed project. With the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport receiving approval for non-scheduled flight operations in December 2023, the state remains focused on leveraging the facility to improve connectivity, attract investments, and drive economic growth.