Thu Sep 19 03:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Oyo Governor Breaks Ground on Ibadan Airport Upgrade, Declares Support for Edo PDP Candidate

**Ibadan, Nigeria** – Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, yesterday officially commenced the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Alakia, Ibadan to international standards. The project, awarded to Messrs Craneburg at a cost of N41 billion, is expected to be completed within the next twelve months.

Governor Makinde highlighted the airport’s strategic importance in connecting Oyo State to the global market, boosting business, attracting investments in key sectors like agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology, and positioning Ibadan as a regional business hub. The upgraded airport will also feature MRO and cargo facilities.

“This is a strategic investment based on data and logic,” said Governor Makinde, emphasizing the project’s two phases, including runway and airfield lighting upgrades, followed by the terminal construction. He also reassured residents of the state that the recently passed Presumptive Tax Law would not be implemented immediately due to the ongoing economic hardship.

In a show of solidarity with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Makinde publicly declared support for the PDP governorship candidate in Saturday’s Edo State election, Mr. Asue Ighodalo. He also reaffirmed his and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s unwavering support for the Damagum-led National Working Committee of the PDP.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal; Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Amb. Damagum; and the Commander National Air Defence Corps, Nigerian Air Force, Ikeja, Lagos, Air Commodore Victor Ajiboye.

The event was lauded by attendees as a significant step towards economic growth and development for Oyo State. The project is expected to create new jobs, attract investment, and enhance passenger experience at the airport.

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