Ibadan airport, circular road projects near completion — Acting Gov

Oyo State Acting Governor, Abdulraheem Lawal, has assured residents that two major infrastructure projects in the state — the upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport and the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road — are nearing completion.

Lawal, who inspected both projects on Monday, disclosed that the upgraded airport will be ready for take-off and landing within the next two to three weeks, while the first segment of the 32.5km circular road is expected to be delivered in about three months.

He described the two projects as “legacy projects” that underscore Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of expanding the state’s economy through massive investment in infrastructure.

“From our assessment and the opinions of experts, the international airport has attained about 75 to 76 per cent completion. In the next two or three weeks, it will be ready, at least, for landing and takeoff of aircraft. The remaining work includes runway dressing, installation of the instrument landing system, and other finishing touches,” Lawal said.

On the circular road, the Acting Governor noted that the contractors are working in line with specifications, adding that hydraulic bridges, culverts and other civil works were being executed to standard.

He assured that government would sustain funding and continue to engage contractors to ensure timely delivery.

Asked if the airport would be available for use during the upcoming Olubadan coronation, Lawal said only experts could determine its readiness but expressed optimism that the facility could be put to use within the next one month.

The airport, valued at N41 billion, was renamed after former Premier of Western Region, Samuel Ladoke Akintola, and is being upgraded to meet international standards.