The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan, on Wednesday, recorded its first aircraft landing since its closure in March 2025 for an upgrade to international standards.

The aircraft, an advance flight from the Presidency ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit, touched down at exactly 9:14 a.m., drawing excitement from onlookers around the airport.

President Tinubu is expected in Ibadan on Friday, September 26, 2025, to attend the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The successful landing of the advance flight is seen as a demonstration of the airport’s readiness and improved capacity to safely and efficiently handle high-profile operations.

The facility upgrade project was flagged off in September 2024 by Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, who at the time emphasized that the airport’s modernization would connect Oyo State to the global market.

According to Makinde, the initiative would not only enhance air travel operations but also provide a dependable transportation hub for both business and leisure, positioning the state for accelerated economic growth and development.

In preparation for the upgrade, the state government had earlier improved the airport’s VIP lounge, provided a fire truck, and installed a 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility.

Wednesday’s flight, ahead of the President’s scheduled visit, is expected to pave the way for regular flight operations as the airport repositions itself as a key gateway to the Southwest region.