![Hon. Festus Keyamo SAN arrives MMIA past 11:50 p.m. Feb 23 to lead oversight of Terminal 1 fire. Joined FAAN MD & team actively managing situation. Directed morning inspection Tuesday to guide restoration & confirm safety standards. Reaffirmed focus on passenger safety. Story: [link] #KeyamoMMIA #FireIncident #FAAN](https://fullcliphq.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/mym-150x150.jpg "MMIA Fire: Keyamo Inspects Lagos Airport After Terminal 1 Blaze Disrupts Flights")
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday commissioned the Gateway International Airport in Iperu and unveiled Gateway Air, the Ogun State-owned airline, during an official visit that highlighted significant infrastructure advancements in the state.
According to statements from the Ogun State Government, the President’s presence in the state on April 4 provided an opportunity to inaugurate several key projects reflecting collaborative federal and state initiatives aimed at sustainable development. Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun hosted the ceremony, describing it as a historic occasion that demonstrated tangible progress in aviation, transportation, power, housing, healthcare, agriculture, security, and industrial development.
The commissioning of the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Remo, located in Ikenne Local Government Area, stood out as a central achievement. Designed to serve as a major aviation and logistics hub, the facility includes a cargo terminal expected to facilitate commercial operations and support regional trade. President Tinubu also performed the unveiling of two newly acquired aircraft for Gateway Air, which will initially be managed in partnership with ValueJet.
This is intended to strengthen air connectivity, boost commerce, and position Ogun State as an attractive destination for investors. Additional projects inaugurated during the visit included a 30-megawatt Independent Power Plant at Onijanganjangan near Ewekoro, aimed at improving electricity supply to industries and communities.
Major road networks were also commissioned, such as the Ilishan–Iperu Road, the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade Road (Phase 3 of the old Sagamu-Ibadan Expressway), and the Gateway International Airport Road. These developments are expected to ease transportation challenges and stimulate economic activities in surrounding areas.
Other initiatives flagged off or commissioned encompassed the construction of the Gateway International Conference Centre, the distribution of electric motorcycles to promote sustainable mobility, the handover of security vehicles and ambulances to enhance public safety and emergency response, as well as agricultural equipment to support farming productivity.
The event attracted notable figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, traditional rulers, community leaders, party stakeholders, and development partners. Governor Abiodun expressed deep appreciation for President Tinubu’s support and leadership, noting that the visit reinforced the strong partnership between the federal government and Ogun State in delivering meaningful progress. He highlighted how these projects aligned with the administration’s vision of building a modern, economically vibrant state through deliberate investments and consistent execution.
In his remarks, President Tinubu commended the focus and discipline demonstrated by the Ogun State Government, emphasising that infrastructure development should translate into improved living standards and long-term national benefits. He described the airport as proof of what could be achieved when vision was matched with determination, and assured that ongoing reforms at the federal level would continue to yield positive outcomes across critical sectors.
The establishment of Gateway Air adds Ogun State to the list of sub-national entities operating commercial airlines in Nigeria, joining initiatives such as Ibom Air in Akwa Ibom and others. Officials anticipate that the airline will create employment opportunities, generate internal revenue, and facilitate easier movement of people and goods, while the airport’s cargo capabilities could open new avenues for export-oriented businesses in agriculture and manufacturing.
Observers see the developments as part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on distant airports in Lagos and other cities, thereby decongesting regional air traffic and promoting decentralised growth. The proximity of the Gateway International Airport to industrial zones in Ogun State is expected to attract logistics firms and manufacturers seeking efficient supply chain solutions.
Security has remained a challenge for the Ogun State Government, with the commissioning of nearly 100 security vehicles during the event reinforcing commitments to protect lives and property. This aligns with earlier announcements regarding the procurement of equipment to tackle various security challenges across the state.
Power infrastructure also received attention through the 30MW plant, which is projected to provide reliable electricity to key facilities and reduce operational costs for businesses. Such interventions are seen as essential for sustaining industrial activities and supporting small and medium enterprises that form the backbone of the state’s economy.
During the Presidential visit, Governor Abiodun reiterated his administration’s resolve to build on these achievements, expand opportunities, and foster shared prosperity for all residents. Observers noted that the projects reflect a multi-sectoral approach to governance, addressing immediate needs while laying foundations for future growth. Improved road networks, for instance, are likely to enhance access to healthcare facilities, schools, and markets, contributing to overall human development indices. I
n the aviation sector, plans are already underway for the airport to support international operations, including potential Hajj flights in 2026, further elevating its strategic importance. The integration of passenger and cargo services is expected to create a robust ecosystem that benefits tourism, trade, and pilgrimage activities.
Federal-state collaboration was a recurring theme throughout the ceremony. President Tinubu’s participation was interpreted as a signal of continued support for sub-national governments that demonstrate commitment to impactful projects. This political partnership model has been credited with accelerating infrastructure delivery in several states.
Looking ahead, the Ogun State Government has indicated plans to leverage the airport and airline to attract more private sector participation in complementary services such as hospitality, cargo handling, and ancillary industries. This strategy aims to create a self-sustaining economic cluster around the aviation hub.
