By Femi Esan
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport has truly come to stay. This monumental project has indeed showcased the power of governance continuity. From securing approvals to ensuring the installation of critical infrastructure, the Governor Oyebanji’s administration has left no stone unturned in bringing the project to fruition.
Designed to serve as an agro-allied cargo hub, the project is set to open international markets to the state’s agricultural produce, creating wealth and opportunities for farmers and businesses alike. It also promises to attract investors, boost tourism, and generate employment across multiple sectors. it is a bold statement of what visionary leadership and governance continuity can achieve. Conceived during the administration of former Governor Kayode Fayemi and nurtured to near completion under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the airport speaks to the power of foresight and the dividends of consistent policy execution. While some skeptics dismissed the project as unrealistic, its near-completion today silences critics and underscores its transformative potential for Ekiti State.
The genesis of the airport project was met with mixed reactions. During Fayemi’s administration, when the groundwork was laid, many questioned the feasibility and relevance of such a large-scale initiative in a state grappling with limited resources. Critics labeled it a political stunt, especially when initial progress was slow. However, Fayemi’s vision was clear: to position Ekiti as a hub for agro-allied commerce, leveraging its rich agricultural heritage to attract investment and stimulate economic growth.
The transition to Governor Oyebanji’s administration could have been a turning point where the project’s momentum faltered. Instead, Oyebanji’s commitment to continuity has ensured that the airport remained a top priority. Recognizing the long-term benefits, his administration allocated significant resources to complete the terminal facilities and acquire essential navigational aids. This steadfast dedication reflects an understanding that monumental projects like the airport require sustained effort across multiple administrations.
The airport’s progress is marked by significant milestones that validate its viability. In October 2022, the first aircraft landed on its runway, a historic moment that dispelled doubts about the project’s feasibility. In December 2024, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) granted a six-month license for non-scheduled services, signaling regulatory confidence in the airport’s readiness. On 21st of January 2025, the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), inspected the airport facilities and declared the project 95% complete, describing it as a game-changer for the State’s economic landscape.
The potential benefits of the airport extend far beyond its physical infrastructure. As an agro-allied cargo hub, it will enhance the state’s agricultural value chain and boost the state’s revenue base. The airport’s strategic location and functionality will also attract investors, stimulate tourism, and create employment opportunities across various sectors. These economic prospects make it a vital asset for the state.
Critics who continue to politicize the airport project fail to grasp its significance as a legacy initiative. Large-scale infrastructure projects are rarely completed within a single administration; they require vision, perseverance, and a collective commitment to progress. The Ekiti Airport exemplifies this reality. It is not about short-term political gains but about laying a foundation for sustainable development that will benefit generations to come.
Governor Oyebanji’s decision to build on Fayemi’s foundation reflects a maturity that prioritizes the state’s development over partisan interests. This approach has fostered collaboration between state and federal agencies, ensuring that the airport meets national and international standards. Such synergy demonstrates what can be achieved when leaders focus on shared goals rather than divisive politics.
The airport’s journey also underscores the importance of effective leadership in driving development. Governor Oyebanji’s administration has not only continued the project but has also infused it with a renewed sense of purpose. By addressing critical components such as regulatory approvals and facility upgrades, the government has ensured that the airport is not just a symbolic achievement but a functional asset ready to deliver tangible benefits.
As the airport nears operational status, it is crucial for all stakeholders to rally behind its success. The facility represents a new chapter in state’s economic narrative, one that holds promise for farmers, businesses, and the entire citizenry. Its operations will serve as a product of what is possible when leadership is guided by vision and sustained by action. As Ekiti prepares to reap the benefits of this monumental project, it is a call to all leaders and citizens alike to embrace the spirit of continuity and collaboration that has made this achievement possible.
