By Precious Oluwole
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has reiterated its commitment to strengthening operations at the Akure Airport, highlighting its critical role in enhancing accessibility, investment, and economic development across the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, while recieving the Manger of the Akure Airport, Mrs Yemisi Adebiyi and her team at the Government house on Thursday, emphasized that the Akure Airport now serves not just Ondo but also neighboring states such as Ekiti and parts of Osun and Oyo, especially following the temporary closure of the Ibadan Airport.
He, however, expressed concern over recent irregularities in flight schedules and cancellations, particularly due to Air Peace’s ongoing aircraft maintenance, calling for urgent collaboration with airline operators to restore stable flight operations to meet growing passenger demand.
On infrastructure, Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the state’s contribution to building the current terminal but expressed dissatisfaction with delays in the construction of a new terminal and the stalled development of the cargo section, which is crucial for exporting agro-products. “We need to expedite the cargo terminal project to enhance our agro-allied export capacity and further stimulate economic growth,” he said.
Raising security concerns, he condemned the encroachment of herders and cattle near the runway, describing it as dangerous and unacceptable. He called for the immediate repair of broken perimeter fencing and the deployment of Amotekun, civil defense, and other federal security agencies to safeguard the airport.
Addressing emergency preparedness, he promised that the government would support the airport with necessary firefighting infrastructure and reiterated the need for regular maintenance checks on emergency response equipment.
He appreciated the airport management and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for their cooperation and urged continued collaboration to ensure the airport’s growth and sustainability. “We are partners in progress and together, we must ensure Akure Airport becomes a hub for both passengers and cargo in the Southwest”, he concluded.
Earlier, the manager of Akure Airport, Mrs Yemisi Adebiyi recalled how a devastating windstorm incident struck the airport, shortly after her assumption of office as the manager of the airport and despite the challenges, the prompt intervention from the state government stood out.
She expressed gratitude for the Governor’s swift response, describing it as a clear indication that the state government genuinely has the airport community at heart.
She acknowledged the support already received from the Ondo State Government in boosting airport operations, emphasizing the critical role of aviation in development.
According to her, all required equipment for completing the cargo terminal is already on-site, packed in containers, and the infrastructure is ready for final works.
Furthering the request for support, the speaker highlighted the security concerns surrounding the airport, especially unauthorized access to the runway by herders and cattle. Despite efforts to engage local communities and security agencies such as the NSCDC and Air Force, incursions had reached dangerous levels.
She requested the Governor’s intervention in bolstering security around the facility, including the establishment of a police post and sustained collaboration with local law enforcement to prevent future breaches.
The manager concluded her address with a plea for the state to consider a waiver for a fire tender to be deployed directly to the airport, ensuring quick emergency response.
In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Chairman, Ondo SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan.
Discover more from Trace News Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.