The Oyo State government has announced that the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Alakia, Ibadan, is scheduled to begin international flight operations by June 2026.
Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, confirmed in a statement on Monday that the international terminal, currently 15 percent complete, is on track to support international flights by the mid-2026 target.
Significant upgrades are underway to elevate the airport to international standards, including extending the runway from 2,400 meters to 3,000 meters and widening it from 45 meters to 60 meters to accommodate wide-body aircraft.
The airfield lighting has been upgraded to CAT C, and firefighting response capabilities have been enhanced to ensure safety.
"Facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other essential agencies are also being put in place," Oyelade added.
In addition to international preparations, local flight operations are set to resume by the end of this year.
The runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pads are now 55 percent complete, which will allow the resumption of domestic flights once regulatory approvals are secured.
Oyelade emphasized that the development is part of the government's broader vision to modernize the Ibadan airport.
"By improving our infrastructure, we enhance domestic travel and prepare for international operations," he said.
The upgrade project was launched on Sept. 18, 2024, and the airport was temporarily closed in March 2025 to expedite construction work.
