Pres. Tinubu commissions Ogun airport, hails economic growth drive
By Omobolaji Adekunle
Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday commissioned the Gateway International Airport in Ilisan-Remo, describing it as a major economic hub poised to drive growth, connectivity and national development.
Speaking at the event, Pres. Tinubu commended Ogun State Gov. Dapo Abiodun for his “commitment, vision and patriotism,” noting that the project reflects bold investment in Nigeria’s future.
“I appreciate the opportunity to join you today in celebrating the remarkable vision of this governor and his predecessors. Today, we commission a major economic hub in this corridor,” the President said.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-centred policies, adding that ongoing reforms, though challenging, are already yielding results.
“Our investments are centred on our people. The infrastructure we see today reflects our confidence in the future of our country. We believe that today’s foundation will secure tomorrow’s prosperity,” Tinubu said, while assuring Nigerians of improved security, economic stability and sustained development.
In his address, Gov. Abiodun described the President’s presence as “historic and symbolic,” stressing that it highlights federal support for subnational governments as engines of growth.
According to him, Ogun State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown from N40bn to over N250bn annually, while its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has increased significantly over the past 7 years.
He described the airport as a flagship project with a nearly 4km runway, modern control systems and cargo facilities, forming the backbone of a proposed aerotropolis. He also announced the launch of Gateway Airlines to boost passenger and cargo movement.
Also speaking, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the synergy between the executive and legislature, noting that such collaboration has been instrumental in delivering development across the country.
The event attracted a high-profile gathering of dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. Among them were former Pres. Olusegun Obasanjo; former Ogun State Gov. Olusegun Osoba; and former governors of the state, including Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun.
Also present were Sen. Iyabo Obasanjo; Lagos State Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Bayelsa State Gov. Douye Diri; Borno State Gov. Babagana Zulum; Niger State Gov. Umar Bago; and Ekiti State Gov. Abiodun Oyebanji.
The Deputy Governor of Oyo State was also in attendance, alongside leading figures in the private sector, including Aliko Dangote; Femi Otedola; and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Also present was the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, among other top government officials and dignitaries.
The commissioning of the Gateway International Airport is regarded as a major milestone in Ogun State’s industrialisation drive and is expected to boost trade, logistics and investment within the region and beyond.