By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has described the newly constructed Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport as a transformative project poised to integrate the state’s economy into the global market.

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti on Monday before departing for Abuja after a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Bamidele commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for driving the state’s economic development and repositioning Ekiti on the global map.

Bamidele lauded the airport’s advanced technology, safety, and operational efficiency, describing it as one of Nigeria’s best. He also praised former Governor Kayode Fayemi for initiating the project and Governor Oyebanji for its completion and operationalisation, highlighting the significance of administrative continuity.

Sharing feedback from pilots who flew him into Ado-Ekiti, Bamidele noted their initial hesitance about landing at the airport but said they were later impressed by its state-of-the-art facilities, including high-quality air traffic control, a well-structured tarmac, and a world-class runway.

The Senate Leader disclosed that discussions are ongoing with commercial flight operators to commence regular flights, which will ease travel for residents who currently rely on airports in neighbouring states.

“This is a historic and strategic development,” Bamidele said. “The pilots who flew us in were amazed by the runway and facilities, describing them as comparable to those of international airports worldwide. It’s a proud moment for me as an Ekiti-born leader and Senate Leader.”

Bamidele also revealed plans to equip the airport for night operations, requiring additional facilities and funding. While daytime operations have been smooth, he expressed eagerness to witness night flights soon.

He concluded, “This airport symbolises the power of continuity, having been conceptualised under one administration and completed under another. It will further open up Ekiti’s economy, especially for mechanised farmers seeking to export their produce efficiently.”