Ekiti State has embarked on an extraordinary journey toward aviation excellence, a journey marked by the unwavering commitment and unity of purpose demonstrated by its former Governors.
Their collective vision has been to position Ekiti as a formidable player on the national and international stage, and the establishment of the International Cargo Airport stands as a testament to that ambition.
From the early days of Engineer Segun Oni to the first term of Dr Kayode Fayemi , to the second coming of Dr Ayodele Fayose every administration in Ekiti recognized the transformative potential of having a world-class airport.
However, this vision reached a pivotal moment during the tenure ofDr. Kayode Fayemi, under whose leadership the airport was officially declared open, setting the stage for what would later become a dual-purpose facility of international standards.
The evolution of the airport did not stop there.
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji took the project further by completing the airport and elevating its facilities to super-international levels. His efforts have ensured that the airport not only meets but exceeds global benchmarks, establishing it as a facility that serves both cargo and passenger functions with exceptional efficiency.
This dual capability is not merely a matter of infrastructure ,it represents a strategic asset that is poised to yield a multitude of benefits for Ekiti State.
Having an airport that serves a dual purpose is a game changer for Ekiti.
At the heart of its advantages lies the capacity to boost the state’s economy on several fronts.
The cargo operations enable the rapid export of agricultural produce, a vital aspect for a region rich in agrarian activities. With streamlined logistics, local farmers and agro-industries can reach international markets, ensuring fresher products and better prices. ..
Simultaneously, the passenger side of the operation enhances connectivity, making it easier for investors, tourists, and business professionals to travel directly to Ekiti.
This improved access not only fosters trade and commerce but also acts as a magnet for tourism, as visitors can now experience the state’s cultural and natural attractions without the hassle of long, indirect travel routes.
The economic ripple effects of a dual-purpose airport extend well beyond agriculture and tourism. It opens up additional revenue streams that are crucial for sustainable development. The continuous operation of cargo services around the clock generates a steady flow of income that supports ancillary industries, from logistics and warehousing to maintenance and security. Moreover, the presence of a modern, international-standard airport enhances the state’s attractiveness to multinational companies and investors. Industries benefit from reduced supply chain bottlenecks, while the ease of transporting raw materials and finished goods fosters a competitive business environment that can drive industrial growth.
This strategic move is further bolstered by global precedents. Around the world, airports that serve both cargo and passenger needs—such as Frankfurt in Germany, Dubai in the UAE, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in India—have become critical nodes in international trade and travel networks.
These examples illustrate how dual-use airports not only streamline logistics but also enhance the overall economic fabric of their regions. For Ekiti State, emulating this model means that the airport is not simply an infrastructural development; it is a catalyst for broader socio-economic transformation.
By integrating the logistics of cargo handling with the dynamism of passenger travel, the state is poised to capture the synergies that come with efficient, modern air transport.
Furthermore, the airport’s dual function directly contributes to job creation and skills development. As new businesses emerge and existing ones expand to leverage the improved connectivity, there will be an increased demand for a skilled workforce to manage, operate, and innovate within this bustling hub.
The ensuing boost in employment will elevate the standard of living for many residents and stimulate further investment in education and vocational training.
Ekiti’s strategic decision to develop an International Cargo Airport that serves both freight and passenger operations is a visionary leap forward. It harnesses the strengths of the state’s agricultural base, propels tourism to new heights, invigorates industrial activities, and embeds the state more firmly within global supply chains. It offers the best of both worlds—a facility that maximizes operational efficiency and economic impact by operating as a gateway for goods and people alike.
In essence, Ekiti Cargo Airport is a masterstroke of strategic planning. It represents a monumental achievement driven by the dedication of past leaders, the visionary steps taken by Dr. Fayemi, and the transformative execution by Governor Oyebanji.
With such an asset at its disposal, Ekiti State is not merely keeping pace with global trends; it is setting new benchmarks in how an airport can serve dual purposes, delivering unparalleled value ,truly one for the price of two.
Congratulations to Ekiti State for this remarkable milestone, a beacon of progress that heralds a new era of economic prosperity and international connectivity.
…. Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre is the Director General Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development
