The NCAA (Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority) has declined to certify Ogun State’s Gateway International Agro Cargo Airport for commercial operations. In a statement, the aviation authority cited the failure of the airport to meet necessary regulatory and safety standards as the primary reason for withholding certification. The NCAA emphasized that airport certification is contingent on compliance with international guidelines, which ensure the safety and security of passengers, aircraft, and personnel.
This development is a setback for Ogun State, which had hoped to leverage the airport for boosting economic activities, particularly in the agricultural and logistics sectors. The Gateway Airport was envisioned as a hub for exporting agricultural produce, reducing the region’s reliance on land transport, and attracting investment to the state. Without certification, the state’s ambitions to open the facility for commercial flights remain on hold.
The NCAA clarified that several key areas required improvement before the airport could be certified. These include infrastructure upgrades, adequate firefighting and rescue services, proper navigational aids, and adherence to environmental standards. The authority assured stakeholders that it was committed to supporting the state in addressing these deficiencies but stressed that safety could not be compromised.
In response, the Ogun State government expressed disappointment but vowed to work closely with the NCAA to resolve the identified issues. Officials indicated that efforts were already underway to meet the certification requirements. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring the airport operates as a world-class facility that adheres to global aviation standards.
The impasse highlights the challenges faced by states in Nigeria when attempting to establish and operate aviation infrastructure. As air travel continues to grow in importance for economic development, meeting stringent safety and operational standards remains a critical hurdle. The resolution of this issue will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for other states seeking to develop similar projects.
