Commercial flight operations have commenced at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport following the approval of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for full operations.
The inaugural flight, operated by United Nigeria Airlines, landed at exactly 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday after departing the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10:30 a.m.
On board the aircraft, with registration number 5B-BWY, were the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku; Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; former governors Ayodele Fayose, Niyi Adebayo and Dr Kayode Fayemi.
Others on the flight included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation, Dr Yakubu Adam Kofarmata; serving members of the National Assembly from Ekiti State; and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo.
On arrival, the aircraft received a traditional water cannon salute from airport fire service vehicles.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Governor Biodun Oyebanji described the commencement of commercial flights at the Ekiti Cargo Airport as a major milestone in the state’s economic development agenda.
He said the maiden commercial flight marked the opening of a new chapter in Ekiti’s transportation infrastructure and a significant step towards the realisation of the state’s long-term economic vision.
The governor disclosed that the state government had invested N49.7 billion directly in the project since inception, while legal luminary, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), donated navigation equipment valued at $1.6 million and constructed a 100-car parking facility.
He explained that over N34 billion was expended on critical civil works, including airfield lighting, the control tower, fire station, meteorological station, perimeter fencing, check-in and baggage handling systems, as well as ongoing construction of staff quarters.
While acknowledging the pioneering roles of former governors Segun Oni, Ayodele Fayose and Kayode Fayemi in conceiving, acquiring land for and initiating the airport project, Oyebanji expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the support that enabled the completion of the multi-billion-naira facility.
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In his remarks, the Executive Director of CCECC Nigeria Ltd, the company that handled the construction of the Airport, John Zhao, described the commercial launch of the Ekiti Airport as a proud milestone for both the firm and Nigeria.
Zhao said the facility, transformed from bare land into a fully functional aviation hub, stands as proof of what leadership and Renewed Hope Agenda can deliver through collaboration and vision.
According to him, the new airport will serve as Ekiti’s “sky gateway,” stimulating employment, logistics, tourism, global exports and fresh investments in the service sector.
He added that its multiplier effect will enhance connectivity, reduce travel time and elevate the state’s standing as an emerging regional gateway.
The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, (UNA) Prof. Okonkwo who described the commencement of full scale service as a significant step in expanding domestic air connectivity.
Prof. Okonkwo said that the new route would boost Ekiti’s economic prospects by supporting tourism, commerce, agriculture and the creative sector.
He expressed gratitude to the governor for creating a conducive environment, assuring high safety standards, quality service and reliable operations across its network.
