Latest Good News: New Airport in Nigeria Starts Operations
Gateway International Airport to Begin Commercial Operations in October
The Ogun State Government has officially announced that the Gateway International Airport, located in Iperu, will begin its commercial operations on October 7, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the region and is expected to bring numerous economic benefits.
The airport was commissioned on August 15, 2025, after receiving an Aerodrome Operational Permit from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The permit confirmed that the facility meets all the necessary regulatory standards to start full commercial operations.
First Commercial Flight by ValueJet
ValueJet, a prominent airline in Nigeria, will operate the first commercial flights from the Gateway International Airport. The airline has scheduled two weekly flights between Ogun and Abuja. Departures from the airport are set for Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m., with arrival in Abuja at 9:45 a.m. Return flights will leave Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 4:00 p.m. and land in Iperu at 5:15 p.m.
Tickets for these new flights became available on September 25, according to ValueJet. Passengers can purchase tickets online, through travel agents, or at ticket desks located at the Gateway International Airport.
Expansion Strategy and Passenger Benefits
ValueJet’s Managing Director, Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi, stated that the launch of flights from the Gateway International Airport aligns with the airline’s expansion strategy. He emphasized that the airport serves the growing demand in Ogun while offering an alternative to Lagos and Ibadan for passengers in the surrounding area.
Majekodunmi highlighted that the airport is positioned to serve both passenger travel and cargo logistics. He added that it provides relief to travelers who previously relied on congested airports in Lagos and Ibadan.
He also mentioned that ValueJet’s growth over the past three years has been driven by customer loyalty, strategic partnerships, and a strong focus on safety and service quality. The airline sees the operations from Gateway International Airport as a milestone not just for the company but for Ogun State as well.
Economic Impact and Government Response
The Ogun State Government described the commencement of ValueJet flights as a significant economic breakthrough. Officials believe that the development will stimulate trade, investment, and tourism while improving connectivity for residents and businesses.
This initiative is expected to create job opportunities and boost local economies. It also enhances the region's accessibility, making it easier for people to travel and conduct business.
New Ticket Prices by Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines
In other developments, Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines have released new ticket prices for their services. According to reports, one-way economy tickets from Lagos and Abuja to destinations such as Owerri, Enugu, Anambra, Port Harcourt, and Asaba now cost N350,500. These new fares, which were released for the Yuletide season, are higher than the previous year’s rates.
Compared to other regions like the North and the South West, these prices are considered very high. For many families, traveling by air during the holidays is becoming increasingly unaffordable.
The introduction of the Gateway International Airport is a positive step towards improving air travel options and reducing the burden on existing airports. With the launch of ValueJet’s flights, the airport is poised to become a key hub for both passengers and cargo, contributing to the overall growth of the region.
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