President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the gateway international agro-cargo airport, two newly acquired aircraft under Gateway Air, and other cargo facilities at the airport, in Iperu, Ogun state, weekend.
The airport constructed by the Ogun state government, is aimed to serve as a major cargo hub and a passenger alternative to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Blueprint.ng reports.
Speaking at the commissioning, President Tinubu noted that his administration’s policies were geared towards empowering sub-nationals to be self independent, adding that projects as such were testament to federal government’s accessibility to states.
He stressed that the commitments by sub-national government to the nation’s future is clear today, adding that tomorrow, and in the years ahead is evident of a better country.
“We believe that today’s foundation will secure tomorrow’s prosperity. I stand before you with a deeply grateful heart. God has endowed us with a great nation and given us the opportunity to move beyond past mismanagement. Our commitment to the future is clear today, tomorrow, and in the years ahead.
“Let me especially commend all those contributing to national development. Your efforts will go a long way. While macro-economic reforms may be challenging, they are already delivering progress for our country.
“Today, we also virtually commission several projects. This airport project is integrated with independent investments in gas and energy, alongside other initiatives designed to impact every level of society
“I am particularly pleased with the focus on mobility, security, and agriculture. The introduction of modern transportation solutions, including new vehicles, reflects a shift toward innovation and improved daily life.
“Strengthening security infrastructure reinforces our resolve to protect lives and property. We will overcome violence and terrorism.
“I assure you that we will continue to make progress. Nigeria is determined to be great, and we are firmly on the path to achieving that greatness once again”, he added.
Ogun state governor, Dapo Abiodun, lauded the President’s handling of the nation’s economy, adding that the visit demonstrate a partnership between the Ogun state government and the federal government’s development agenda.
He added that the projects reflect his administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure, adding that it was evidence of a resolve to build a more prosperous Ogun state while contributing meaningfully to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government
“These projects reflect our shared commitment to infrastructure development, improved mobility, enhanced security, emergency response, agricultural advancement, energy support, and economic transformation,” he said
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, in his goodwill message lauded the President’s strict adherence to true democracy, ensuring the timely contribution of the legislative arm in national development
“Without proper appropriation and collaboration between the executive and legislature, what we see today would not have been possible. Progress like this requires unity, not conflict.
“Today, we are moving toward greater decentralization of power, both in electricity and governance, so that states can take more responsibility for development and service delivery.
“At the federal level, your reforms have strengthened revenue distribution to subnational governments. Funds allocated through the federation account are reaching the states, enabling them to execute projects and meet obligations without excessive borrowing”, he said.
Other projects commissioned virtually include the 30MW Independent Power Plant at Onijanganjangan near Ewekoro, the Ilishan–Iperu road, and the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade road.
Others include the reconstructed Old Ibadan Road, renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway, 1000 electric bikes, agricultural equipment such as tractors, security vehicles, ambulances, and the Nigeria Customs Service Village and Forward Operating Base.
Dignitaries at the commissioning includes former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, governors of Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Borno, Bayelsa, Niger, and Taraba, former Ogun state governors, Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun, and Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, among others
