We are determined that before the end of this year, we will install Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the Ado Airport – Oyebanji
It has been stated by the Governor of Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji, that arrangements are being made to guarantee that the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport operates around the clock in order to make the route more competitive.
Additionally, the Governor Oyebanji expressed his joy that the state’s economy has shown substantial growth over the course of the previous two and a half years.
He also pledged to take additional steps to ensure a more sustainable development of the state and an improved standard of life for the constituents.
On Monday night, during his monthly media chat, Meet Your Governor, Oyebanji said his government wants to make Ekiti Airport a major hub and economic driver to attract more investors and boost citizens’ economic capacities.
Oyebanji said, “The issue is to make the route profitable and competitive for airlines and if the route is profitable, they will bring their planes. Part of what we are doing is to make it an airport of choice and by next year, they will be able to run Hajj and Christian pilgrimage.
“To make it an airport of choice, we must put a structure that guarantees 24-hour landing. There is what we call Instrument Landing System (ILS) which enables night operations and also enables planes to land in extreme weather.
“ILS as at today will cost close to N4.6 billion but we are determined to get it done.“We are determined that before the end of this year, we will install ILS at the Ado Airport.
“If we are able to do that, it will be the second airport in Southwest after Lagos Airport that has such a facility so that aircraft can land at night.
“We are also talking to a vendor that will provide a hangar for airport services, so it’s a whole gamut of transaction that is going on.”
Additionally, Oyebanji announced that a cargo shed is currently being constructed near the airport in order to act as a storage facility for cash crops and vegetables grown on farms.
He expressed his gratitude to Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the leader of the Senate, for making it possible for it to be included in the budget.