The much-anticipated Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Ogun State is officially set to begin operations on October 7, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation and transportation sector. The inaugural flights will be operated by Nigerian carrier ValueJet, which has confirmed it will begin with a twice-weekly service connecting the new facility to major domestic routes.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed the development while speaking on the state’s progress in positioning itself as a major aviation and logistics hub. According to him, the airport is not just a transportation project but also a cornerstone for agricultural, industrial, and economic growth in the state. “This airport will open up Ogun State to new opportunities in trade, commerce, and investment,” he said, noting that ValueJet’s commitment underscores the readiness of the facility for full-scale operations.
ValueJet, known for its low-cost and customer-friendly operations, said it was excited to pioneer scheduled services from the new airport. The airline revealed that the twice-weekly flights are only the beginning, with plans to scale up services as demand grows. This, industry experts say, will give travelers in Ogun and neighboring states easier access to affordable and reliable air travel.
The Gateway International Airport, strategically located along the Iperu-Remo axis, is expected to serve not only passenger flights but also agro-cargo operations, which form a critical part of its design. Officials say the airport was conceptualized to boost the state’s agricultural value chain by facilitating the export of farm produce and processed goods to regional and global markets.
Governor Abiodun highlighted that the project has been carefully structured to attract private investment and ensure sustainability. He added that beyond aviation, the airport would stimulate job creation, attract ancillary industries, and enhance Ogun’s reputation as a business-friendly destination. The governor reaffirmed that his administration remains focused on infrastructure development as a driver for economic transformation.
Industry stakeholders have described the move as a welcome development that could reshape travel logistics in southwestern Nigeria. With Lagos often experiencing congestion at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the new Gateway Airport offers an alternative entry point that could ease pressure on Lagos while expanding options for travelers and cargo operators.
According to ValueJet’s management, the airline sees immense potential in the Ogun aviation market and plans to work closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations. The carrier believes that demand for air travel in the axis is strong, given the rising number of businesses, industries, and residents in Ogun and its surrounding regions.
The launch comes at a time when Nigeria’s aviation industry is experiencing renewed focus on expansion and modernisation. Analysts argue that investments in regional airports like Gateway are essential to decentralizing air traffic, boosting local economies, and encouraging competition among airlines. Such projects also align with the federal government’s ambition to grow the aviation sector as a contributor to GDP.
Residents of Ogun State have expressed optimism that the airport will ease travel stress, reduce road traffic for long-distance journeys, and attract more businesses to the area. Local farmers, in particular, believe the agro-cargo component will help them access wider markets, improve profitability, and reduce wastage of perishable goods.
Aviation experts note that the success of the new airport will depend on how well it is integrated into the broader logistics and transport framework. They emphasize the importance of quality road networks, security, and efficient regulatory oversight to ensure seamless operations. The Ogun State government has assured that necessary infrastructure and safety measures are already in place.
Beyond immediate economic benefits, the Gateway Airport is also viewed as a symbol of Ogun’s long-term vision. Governor Abiodun said the project demonstrates how states can drive economic growth through strategic investments in infrastructure while creating an enabling environment for private-sector participation.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has already certified the facility, clearing the way for ValueJet’s inaugural operations. The regulator commended Ogun State for adhering to global aviation safety standards and encouraged other states to invest in similar infrastructure that aligns with national development goals.
ValueJet’s inaugural flights on October 7 are expected to be historic, drawing dignitaries, aviation stakeholders, and business leaders. The airline said passengers can expect the same affordability, safety, and service quality it has become known for, adding that the new route represents its commitment to expanding connectivity within Nigeria.
As the countdown to October 7 begins, anticipation continues to build among residents, stakeholders, and aviation enthusiasts. With Ogun State’s Gateway International Airport set to open its doors, Nigeria’s aviation landscape is preparing for yet another transformative chapter that could redefine connectivity, commerce, and competitiveness in the years ahead.
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