The Ogun State Government has advanced plans to commence international passenger operations at Gateway International Airport, positioning the annual Hajj pilgrimage flights to Saudi Arabia as the first phase of its global rollout.
According to a post by A.Ayofes on X, the move marks a key milestone in the state’s aviation development strategy and signals its ambition to expand connectivity and position the facility as a regional air transport hub.
According to the government, the initiative forms part of a wider strategy to strengthen aviation infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in Ogun State and the entire South-West region of Nigeria.
This development comes as the state moves closer to fully activating the airport, which has been designed as a strategic aviation hub to support businesses and travellers from Ogun State and neighbouring areas. Governor Dapo Abiodun has begun a series of high-level discussions with federal agencies whose roles are essential for the airport’s international operations, including Hajj and cargo flights.
READ: Aviacargo: Ogun State Set to Receive First European Cargo Flight at Gateway Airport in Nigeria
Officials explained that these engagements are aimed at ensuring the airport satisfies all operational and regulatory standards before international services commence. Major areas being addressed include strengthening security systems, deploying specialised personnel, establishing passenger processing facilities, and ensuring full regulatory compliance under the supervision of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.
To coordinate these efforts, the governor has assigned Capt. Dapo Olumide, Aviation Consultant and Accountable Manager of Gateway International Airport, to lead discussions with the relevant federal bodies. Olumide has already held meetings with representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the Nigeria Customs Service, whose team was led by Assistant Comptroller-General B. Mohammed. Further consultations with other federal institutions are still ongoing.
These engagements are intended to ensure the timely deployment of the infrastructure and personnel required for international passenger and cargo operations. Gateway International Airport is expected to improve regional connectivity and support pilgrimage travel, particularly for Hajj operations to Saudi Arabia.
Officials also believe the airport will enhance international trade by facilitating cargo movement and making it easier for investors and businesses to access Ogun State. Once fully operational, the airport is projected to complement existing aviation facilities in the South-West, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, while positioning Ogun State as an emerging centre for aviation-driven commerce and logistics. Bold 5 Benin
