The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that the Ibadan Airport will be closed for six months to allow for maintenance and upgrade works.
NCAA publicist, Michael Achimugu, disclosed this on Friday via his X handle. The announcement comes just eight months after President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade of the airport to international status.
In his post, Achimugu stated, “Subject to new information, Ibadan airport may be shut down for six months for maintenance/upgrade, starting from early March.”
President Tinubu had granted approval for the upgrade of the Ibadan Domestic Airport, Alakia, to an international airport in June 2024.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed this development, stating that the upgrade would include the expansion and extension of the runway, as well as a general enhancement of airport facilities.
Makinde further announced in January 2025 that construction of a new international terminal was underway as part of the state’s efforts to meet international aviation standards. This follows the groundbreaking ceremony held on September 18, 2024, marking the beginning of the project’s first phase.
According to the governor, the upgrade will be executed in two major stages. The initial phase, which is already in progress, includes runway improvements, airport lighting upgrades, and fire service enhancements.
Once completed, the airport will be able to receive international flights from destinations worldwide.
