The Oyo State Government has commenced the connection of potable water to the Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan, as part of its strategic infrastructure upgrade to support the airport’s transformation into a modern international travel hub.
The Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation, Hon. Elias Adeojo, confirmed the development on Monday during an engagement with representatives of Cranebury, the construction firm handling the project. He stated that the initiative was a direct directive from Governor Seyi Makinde, following the governor’s recent unscheduled inspection visit to the airport.
“His Excellency was at the airport recently and gave a clear instruction that the water supply must be connected without delay,” Adeojo said. “I want to assure the people of Oyo State that all necessary materials have been acquired, and the water pipeline connection will be completed in record time.”
The water connection project is one of several ongoing efforts by the state government to enhance operational capacity and passenger comfort at the airport. Other major works include the extension of the airport runway from 2,400 to 3,000 meters, expansion of the width from 45 to 60 meters, and the upgrading of airfield lighting to Category C standards. These upgrades aim to meet international aviation benchmarks and improve flight safety and night-time operations.
The Ladoke Akintola International Airport, which currently serves mostly domestic flights, is expected to resume full local operations by the end of 2025. The state government has also disclosed that international flight services are projected to commence by early 2026, with the construction of a new international terminal scheduled for completion by June 2026.
In a related move, the Oyo State Water Corporation has also begun reconnection efforts to restore water supply to the Agodi Correctional Centre. The facility, which previously enjoyed consistent water access, suffered a disruption due to the vandalization of its main water pipeline. The corporation has now replaced the damaged 100mm UPC pipe serving Oke-Adu, paving the way for the correctional centre’s reconnection.
These infrastructure strides, according to state officials, underscore Governor Makinde’s commitment to improving essential services and positioning Ibadan as a viable destination for global investment and travel.
