On Saturday, President Bola Tinubu inaugurated the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, Ogun State, alongside the launch of a new airline, Gateway Airline. During the ceremony, President Tinubu praised Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for his “visionary leadership and effective use of resources,” highlighting the airport as a significant achievement for the region.
Tinubu expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts that led to the airport’s completion, stating, “Today, we commissioned the economic nerve centre of our corridor.” He commended Governor Abiodun for his dedication and contributions to Nigeria’s growth over the past seven years, emphasizing the importance of the airport as part of broader investments in energy and infrastructure critical to national development.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who attended the inauguration, referred to the airport as a landmark project that would significantly reduce travel time for residents. He shared his experience of traveling from Abuja to the new airport, noting that it saved him considerable time compared to landing in Lagos.
Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, reiterated that the airport and other infrastructure projects aim to bridge gaps and position Ogun as an attractive destination for investment. He highlighted the state government’s achievements, including the construction or rehabilitation of over 1,600 kilometers of roads, the development of thousands of housing units, and investments in healthcare, agriculture, and energy. The governor emphasized that the new airport and airline would enhance trade, mobility, and regional development.
The event attracted a notable audience, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, governors from various states, former governors of Ogun State, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and prominent business figures such as Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola. The gathering underscored the significance of the airport project and its anticipated impact on the region’s economy and connectivity.
