The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Ona Najomo, has applauded the Ogun State Government for its visionary commitment to the Gateway International Airport, describing it as a benchmark project capable of transforming aviation development at the sub-national level.

Captain Najomo made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, where discussions centred on ongoing aviation reforms and the strategic integration of the Gateway International Airport, Iperu-Ilishan, into Nigeria’s expanding air transport network.

“The Gateway International Airport represents what state-led infrastructure can achieve when driven by vision and commitment,” Najomo said. “It is a model facility that aligns with international standards and will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s aviation growth.”

The NCAA boss commended the project’s technical quality, forward-thinking design, and compliance with regulatory benchmarks, assuring that the Authority would continue to provide technical guidance and certification support to fast-track the airport’s operational readiness.

Responding, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to maintaining global safety, efficiency, and compliance standards, as preparations advance toward the commencement of commercial flight operations.

“Our goal is to build not just an airport, but an economic gateway that connects Ogun to the world — driving trade, tourism, and industrial growth,” Abiodun said. “We appreciate the NCAA’s partnership and commitment to ensuring the Gateway International Airport meets world-class standards.”

State officials highlighted that the visit underscores Ogun’s determination to position itself as a major aviation and commercial hub in Nigeria’s Southwest corridor — with the airport expected to catalyse logistics, investment, and industrial expansion across key sectors.

With the Gateway International Airport nearing operational completion, the collaboration between the Ogun State Government and the NCAA signals a strong federal–state partnership aimed at elevating aviation excellence, regulatory compliance, and economic competitiveness in Nigeria.