Infrastructure developments key to Oyo prosperity- Makinde

OYO, Nigeria- Oyo State Governor , Seyi Makinde has provided insights on Sunday why the enhancement of Ibadan Airport to international standards and the Ibadan Circular Road projects are crucial for propelling the state’s economy forward.

Makinde emphasised that these projects are significant to his administration and vital for the growth of the state’s economy, promising to complete part of the airport project and the 32-kilometre East Wing section of the Ibadan Circular Road within this year.

The governor made these remarks during the 2025 Thanksgiving Service at the Victory International Church, Rehoboth Cathedral, Ibadan.

He assured that his government would strive to achieve more for the citizens this year, noting that the upgraded Ibadan Airport would be competitive with the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

Makinde reiterated his commitment to ensuring that his tenure is remembered for establishing enduring infrastructure and institutions in the state.

He expressed optimism that Nigerians would endure the ongoing economic challenges, asserting that resilient individuals are prepared to withstand difficult times.

Makinde stated: “I have always maintained that when I leave office, I do not wish to be remembered solely for the projects. However, some projects hold a special place in my heart. These include the upgrade of Ibadan Airport to an international standard. Some have argued that it is not a feasible project due to Ibadan's proximity to Lagos. While that is accurate, Ibadan Airport should have served as an alternative to Lagos from the outset.

“When we took office, there were no storage or fuel dispensing facilities at the airport. How can it be viable if aircraft cannot refuel here? We have now installed the aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility, and just yesterday, I witnessed an aircraft being refueled at our airport in Ibadan. Thus, we have eliminated one of the barriers that hindered the airport's viability. We are also extending the runway to accommodate a Boeing 787 landing soon.

“We constructed a terminal designed for 100,000 passengers annually. We are now building a new terminal capable of handling over one million passengers at that airport. With our efforts, Ibadan Airport will become viable and compete with Lagos Airport.”

He urged residents to take responsibility for their actions, stating that the government would uphold the rule of law across various sectors.

Earlier, during his thanksgiving sermon, the Presiding Bishop, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun, called for continued prayers to support the government in delivering more benefits of democracy to the people.