History smiled on Ogun State as the first commercial flight took off from the Gateway International Airport, Ilishan-Remo, a monumental milestone that cements Ogun’s place in Nigeria’s aviation and industrial landscape.
We heartily congratulate His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, for this extraordinary accomplishment. Against all odds, his administration brought this long-dreamed project to life, ensuring Ogun finally takes its rightful place among states with world-class aviation infrastructure.
The Vision That Started It All
Indeed, today could not exist without a yesterday.
The foundation of this remarkable achievement was laid by the Ọtunba Gbenga Daniel administration (2003–2011), whose far-sighted Ogun State 20-Year Regional Development Plan (2005–2025) envisioned an Agro-Cargo and Industrial Airport as a central catalyst for the state’s economic transformation.
Under Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s leadership, the government:
- Commissioned feasibility and environmental impact studies (EIA)
- Completed the design and secured all regulatory approvals from NCAA and NAMA
- Acquired and compensated landowners
- Turned the sod, setting the dream in motion
In Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s words at the flag-off:
“The Agro-Cargo Airport is positioned to serve as a conveyor belt for Nigeria’s import and export trade — especially agricultural produce, perishable goods, industrial materials, and consumer goods.”
That vision was for an Aeropolis — not merely an airstrip, but a thriving ecosystem combining aviation, industrial parks, logistics hubs, aviation schools, hotels, and maintenance facilities — a model for sustainable regional development.
The Dream Becomes Reality
While the vision was conceived years ago, it takes leadership, continuity, and tenacity to transform blueprints into wings that fly.
For this, Governor Dapo Abiodun deserves full commendation. His administration’s determination, focus, and financial prudence ensured that what began as an idea has now become a living, breathing infrastructure — completed, commissioned, and fully operational.
And this — more than anything else — stands as a shining example of what happens when governance operates as a continuum rather than a contest. When successive administrations choose to build on one another’s efforts rather than start afresh for political reasons, the people become the ultimate beneficiaries.
In this case, the great people of Ogun State are the true winners of the work and vision of two different governments united by purpose. It is a rare and refreshing moment in our democratic journey — and indeed, a good thing to behold.
A Shared Legacy of Progress
As we celebrate this epoch-making flight, we acknowledge with gratitude all who contributed at various stages — from the OGD administration that dreamed it, to the present government that delivered it.
Special appreciation goes to:
- Ms. Yọsọla Akinbi, Economic Adviser under the OGD administration, whose diligence and commitment helped shape the early vision
- Engr. Bayọ Adeola and the Masterplan Team, for their technical brilliance
- Architect Femi Majekodunmi & Associates and Messrs. Dal al-Handasah, for their design work
- UNILAG Consult, led by Prof. Denloye, for the EIA studies — supported by the late Prof. Ibidapo-Obe
- And the federal leaders who supported the dream — President Olusegun Obasanjo for his encouragement, and President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (of blessed memory) for his final approval
The Omoluabi Way
In the spirit of Omoluabi, we celebrate Governor Dapo Abiodun, the man who placed the finishing touch on a generational dream.
We equally salute Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the original visionary whose courage to imagine made today’s achievement possible.
Together, they remind us that leadership is a relay not a rivalry. One starts the race, another finishes it; both share the glory of victory.
Congratulations to the Government and People of Ogun State.
The Gateway truly flies again.
God bless Ogun State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Professor Adegbemi Ọnakoya, PhD, FCA
Secretary to the Ogun State Government (2008–2011)
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
