The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the temporary closure of Samule Ladoke Akintola Ibadan Airport for six months to allow for maintenance and upgrade works.
The NCAA spokesperson, Michael Achimugu, disclosed this on Friday via his X handle, stating that the closure is expected to begin in early March.
This development comes eight months after President Bola Tinubu approved the upgrade of the Airport to international status. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier revealed the federal government’s approval, highlighting plans for runway expansion, facility upgrades, and the construction of a new international terminal.
In January 2025, Makinde reiterated the state’s commitment to transforming the airport, noting that the first phase of the upgrade—runway improvements, airport lighting enhancements, and fire service upgrades—was already underway following the groundbreaking ceremony held on September 18, 2024.
Once completed, the upgraded airport will facilitate international flights directly into Ibadan.
