Ibadan: The Oyo State Government has announced that the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan, will commence international flight operations by June 2026. This was confirmed by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oyelade stated that the international terminal is currently 15 per cent complete and is projected to be ready for international flights by the targeted date. He explained that significant efforts are underway to upgrade the airport to meet international standards.

The upgrade plans include extending the current runway from 2,400 metres to 3,000 metres, along with widening it from 45 metres to 60 metres to accommodate wide-body aircraft. The airfield lighting has been enhanced to CAT C, and firefighting response capabilities have been improved to ensure safety.

Oyelade also highlighted that facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other essential agencies are being established. He mentioned that while local flight operations are set to resume by the end of the year, the runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads are now 55 per cent complete.

He emphasized that these infrastructure upgrades are crucial for allowing local flights to resume, pending approval from relevant regulatory authorities. The commissioner reiterated that this development is part of the government's broader vision to modernize the Ibadan airport.

The development of the airport infrastructure is seen as a step towards enhancing domestic travel and preparing for international operations. The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the upgrade project was inaugurated on September 18, 2024, and that the airport was temporarily closed in March 2025 to expedite construction efforts.