The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that it has granted a commercial operational licence to the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Ogun State, officially signaling the commencement of commercial activities at the facility.
The Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Balang Godwin, confirmed the development in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Monday.
Godwin stated that the issuance of the license clears the path for the airport to begin flight operations. “Yes, the licence has been granted, and once that’s done, you can commence operation,” he said. “Once we issue the certificate, whether for an airline or an aerodrome, operations can begin, just as we have done in Ogun.”
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, had disclosed the development in a video obtained by The PUNCH, calling it a historic milestone for both the state and the nation.
According to him, this marks the first time a newly constructed airport in Nigeria has received such certification under the country’s current regulatory framework.
The airport has been issued an Aerodrome Reference Code of 3C and an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Services Category 6 rating. It is expected to operate daytime flights only, from sunrise to sunset, using a non-precision approach for Runway 05/23 and supporting Area Navigation procedures.
Governor Abiodun revealed that a global logistics firm has committed to operating two weekly cargo flights between London and the airport. He added that passenger operations would also commence soon, with initial routes to Abuja and Port Harcourt.
“I had a meeting on Sunday with a company that wants to be flying two cargo flights from London to this airport on a weekly basis,” he said. “We will also have passenger flights to Abuja and Port Harcourt at the startup phase.”
The airport has been designated as an alternate landing site for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, further enhancing its strategic importance. The governor expressed optimism that the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport would become a key driver of trade, investment, and tourism in the region.
“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.
