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VENO NEWS:*Gateway International Airport Steals the Spotlight at Awujale’s 8th Day Fidau: Ogun Declares Readiness for the World*.
Date: 21-07-25

History was made yet again in Ogun State as the final prayers in honour of the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, became not only a solemn royal rite but a resounding testimony to the growing stature of Ogun State as a global destination for trade, tourism, and leadership.

As dignitaries trooped into Ijebu Ode for the 8th Day Fidau Prayer on Sunday, July 20, 2025, one moment stood out as both symbolic and historic — the landing of the Nigerian Air Force’s No. 1 presidential aircraft at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu.

With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR aboard, Ogun State’s flagship airport became the official point of arrival and departure for Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief, who touched down earlier in the day and departed back to base at approximately 6:15 p.m. The seamless arrival and departure of the presidential jet served as clear affirmation of the airport’s safety, capacity, and international readiness.

For a long time, skeptics questioned the viability of the Gateway International Airport project. But this moment — dignified, historic, and spectacular — has effectively silenced the naysayers. The sight of the President's aircraft gliding safely into Iperu airspace sent a powerful message to the world: Ogun is ready. Ogun is open. Ogun has arrived.

The Fidau Prayer was held at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu Ode, drawing political leaders, royal dignitaries, and religious figures from across the country. But the buzz around the Gateway International Airport reverberated even louder, particularly because it became the point of convergence for Nigeria’s number one citizen and other top government officials.

President Tinubu, in his remarks, described the late Awujale as an honest, bold, and courageous monarch who stood firmly with the democratic struggle during the June 12 era and remained steadfast in the pursuit of justice and truth. He noted that the Awujale’s unwavering support and blessings played a crucial role in his journey to the presidency.

The president also praised Governor Dapo Abiodun’s leadership, highlighting the Governor’s deep respect and care for the traditional institution.

Governor Abiodun, in his address, described Oba Adetona as a moral compass, a unifier, and a legacy builder whose contributions to nation-building will remain indelible.

Yet, for many observers, Governor Abiodun’s true legacy was physically evident in the functionality and elegance of the Gateway International Airport. What was once seen as an ambitious vision has now emerged as a gateway to investment, commerce, and connectivity. The successful handling of a presidential visit — complete with the movement of high-level aircraft, dignitaries, and security details — offers irrefutable proof of the airport’s world-class capacity.

From trade exhibitions to cultural tourism, the airport is expected to be a launchpad for economic transformation, linking Ogun State’s industrial corridor to national and international opportunities.

Governor Abiodun has, without a doubt, met and exceeded the expectations of his people. The successful presidential use of the airport is not just a technical achievement; it is a statement of pride, a declaration of confidence, and a landmark victory for purposeful governance.

The Gateway International Airport is no longer just a facility — it is a symbol of Ogun State’s preparedness to host the world.

As prayers were said for the repose of a king, a new era was born for a state — one firmly on the runway of greatness.

*Tayo Mabeweje Tayo
Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Ogun State

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