The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially granted a commercial operational licence to the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Ogun State, paving the way for both cargo and passenger flights at the facility. The approval marks a historic milestone for the state and the nation’s aviation sector.
Balang Godwin, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards at the NCAA, confirmed the development in a phone interview with our correspondent.
He explained that with the issuance of the licence, the airport can commence flight operations.
“Yes, the licence has been granted, and once that’s done, you can commence operation,” Godwin said.
“Once we issue the certificate, whether for an airline or an aerodrome, operations can begin, just as we have done in Ogun.”
Governor Dapo Abiodun described the certification as a landmark achievement, noting that this is the first time a newly constructed airport in Nigeria has received such recognition under the current regulatory framework.
In a statement obtained by ireport247news.com, the governor said the development positions Ogun as a strategic hub for aviation and trade in the country.
The airport has been assigned an Aerodrome Reference Code of 3C and an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Services (ARFFS) Category 6 rating, enabling it to handle a variety of medium-sized aircraft.
Operations will initially be limited to daytime flights, utilizing a non-precision approach for Runway 05/23 and supporting Area Navigation (RNAV) procedures.
Governor Abiodun revealed that a global logistics firm has committed to launching two weekly cargo flights between London and the airport, signaling the airport’s potential as an international trade gateway.
Passenger operations are also expected to begin soon, with initial domestic routes targeting Abuja and Port Harcourt.
“I had a meeting on Sunday with a company that wants to operate two cargo flights from London to this airport on a weekly basis,” Abiodun stated.
“We will also have passenger flights to Abuja and Port Harcourt during the startup phase.”
The Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport has also been designated as an alternate landing site for Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, further underscoring its strategic significance in Nigeria’s aviation network.
The governor expressed optimism that the facility would attract investment, boost tourism, and enhance trade in Ogun State and beyond.
“With world-class infrastructure, international connectivity, and a strategic location, the Gateway International Airport will raise the bar for air travel in Nigeria and serve as a proud symbol of Ogun State’s progress,” Abiodun said.
Analysts believe that the commencement of operations at Ogun’s airport could decongest Lagos airports, improve cargo handling efficiency, and facilitate faster movement of goods and passengers across Nigeria.
Aviation industry experts also note that the airport will likely stimulate local economic growth by attracting global logistics firms, airlines, and ancillary services.
The NCAA’s approval is a key milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing effort to expand and modernize its airport infrastructure.
By enabling commercial flights in Ogun, the country aims to decentralize aviation traffic from overburdened hubs and strengthen regional connectivity.
As the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport prepares to launch commercial services, stakeholders anticipate that this development will set new standards in airport management, trade facilitation, and regional economic development in Nigeria.