Commercial cargo flight operations are set to commence at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, in what stakeholders describe as a major step toward strengthening agribusiness, trade, and logistics in the Southwest.
The development follows the commencement of passenger operations at the airport on October 7, 2025, a move that officially opened the state owned facility to travellers across Nigeria. With cargo services now coming on stream, attention is shifting to export expansion, particularly agricultural produce, and the creation of a structured logistics chain for manufacturers and farmers.
Chairman of Sifax Group and aviation partner SAHCO Plc, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, described the initiative as historic after a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun.
“We are bringing chartered flights to Iperu, and I have not seen any domestic airport in Nigeria that meets this standard. The infrastructure here is exceptional for cargo operations,” he said.
Afolabi noted that the cargo corridor would not only encourage imports but significantly drive exports from Ogun State and neighbouring Southwest states, especially farm produce. According to him, the airport presents a reliable channel for agribusiness operators seeking faster access to international markets.
He added that the facility would serve as a major platform for manufacturing logistics and international trade, urging investors to take advantage of the state’s business environment.
Managing Director of Allied Air, Captain Val Tongo, also expressed satisfaction with the level of infrastructure at the airport, disclosing that discussions were ongoing on the possibility of establishing a cargo flight training school at the facility.
“Many states operate cargo airports, but Ogun State is clearly ahead, especially with its proximity to Lagos. What matters is not just building infrastructure but making it functional and economically viable,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Air Atlantic, Mr King, equally commended the airport’s infrastructure and indicated readiness to partner with the Ogun State Government in cargo handling operations.
“I am very impressed with what I saw at the airport and ready to partner with Ogun State Government in cargo handling. We operate cargo flights to Nigeria and other West African countries and are prepared to make Ogun a centre of cargo business in Nigeria,” he stated.
Industry stakeholders projected that the commencement of cargo operations would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs spanning aviation services, warehousing, trucking, cold chain logistics, packaging, and export processing.
They also noted that structured cargo operations would reduce post harvest losses, boost agricultural exports, attract manufacturing firms, and increase revenue through airport services and related businesses.
