By Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado Ekiti
Following the recent approval by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the commencement of scheduled commercial flights at the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado Ekiti, the member representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 1 at the House of Representatives, Hon. Fatoba Olusola Steve, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Ekiti State.
Hon. Fatoba, who also serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics, and Values, commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his dedication and unwavering efforts in ensuring the completion and operational readiness of the airport project.
He also paid glowing tribute to renowned legal luminary and elder statesman, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), for his significant contributions and consistent support towards the realization of the airport project.
The approval marks a major milestone for the state, coming after the expiration of the initial non-scheduled flight permit granted by the NCAA in December 2024. The new approval follows full compliance with regulatory requirements by the airport authorities.
According to an NCAA letter dated October 3, 2025, addressed to Governor Oyebanji and signed by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engr. Godwin Balang, the interim operational approval is valid for six months, allowing the commencement of scheduled (commercial) flights under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), i.e., daylight operations only.
The letter, referenced NCAA/DAAS/TECH//043/Vol. 1/158, stated that the NCAA conducted a validation inspection at the airport from June 16th to 19th, 2025, and found that the basic operational requirements for scheduled flight operations had been “significantly complied with.” It further cited a satisfactory instrument flight check validation report from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
“In line with the provisions of Nig. CARs Part 12 Vol. 1, 2023, I have been directed to convey the Authority’s Interim Operational Permit, subject to the limitations of VFR or daylight (sunrise to sunset) operations,” the letter read.
The interim permit is expected to pave the way for the airport to address outstanding certification gaps and ultimately receive a three-year Aerodrome Operational Permit, pending full compliance with regulatory standards.
Reacting to the development, Hon. Fatoba described it as a major boost to the economic and infrastructural development of the state. He emphasized that commercial operations at the airport would enhance agribusiness, tourism, medical tourism, and other commercial activities in Ekiti.
“I am indeed happy to hear this news—this is a major feat, and I congratulate all Ekiti indigenes, both at home and abroad,” Fatoba said.
“I want to particularly commend Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his relentless efforts in making the airport fully functional. I also thank our father, Baba Aare Afe Babalola, for his unwavering support and valuable contributions.
I must not forget our amiable leader and former Governor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, whose vision laid the foundation for this success.”
Hon. Fatoba added that the airport’s readiness for international-standard operations demonstrates the high quality of work executed and positions Ekiti as an emerging destination for serious investors and tourists alike.
“This is a clear sign that Ekiti is on the right track. The airport will elevate our economy and make our state a hub for investment and tourism. The fact that the infrastructure meets international standards is a testament to the quality and seriousness of the project,” he noted.
The lawmaker concluded by calling on all Ekiti people to support the state government’s initiatives, which he described as people-focused and transformative.
“This is a win for us all. I urge our people to continue to support and encourage the government in delivering more impactful and developmental projects,” he said.