Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Thursday expressed optimism that the new Gateway Agro Cargo International Airport, Iperu, Ogun State, would remarkably boost the nation’s economic growth, especially the non-oil sector as the government continues to intensify its diversification drive of the economy.
Osinbajo, who made this remark during the maiden test flight of the newly constructed airport, pointed out that construction and development of critical infrastructure, especially in the transportation sub-sector, held the potential for creating more jobs and strongly positioning the economy on the path of sustainable growth.
He said: “In a few months, Kajola Dry Port will also be operational. I am confident that this airport will transform the entire South West region, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth and development in our nation and sub-region.
“This is how we build a modern, prosperous future for all Nigerians. I have no doubt that the culture of innovation and progress that the Gateway Agro Cargo International Airport has already brought will continue to motivate the people of Ogun State even more”, the Vice President added.
This is even as he harped on the importance of the airport and Kajola Dry Port projects to the operationalization of the Special Agriculture Processing Zones funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) as well as Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCTA).
The newly commissioned Gateway Agro Cargo International Airport is a Category E airport with four-kilometre runway, a 36-metre control tower and can accommodate an Airbus A380, a Boeing 747 and a Boeing 747.
The airport also has a 82,000 square metres of cargo apron for types C and E aircraft when completed.
