The Ogun State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated ValueJet Airlines, its Chairman, Otunba Kunle Soname, and Governor Dapo Abiodun over the successful take-off of the first commercial flight at the newly inaugurated Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, Iperu-Remo.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary of Ogun SWAN, Olusegun Folarin, on Tuesday, the association described the milestone as a historic breakthrough that signals a new dawn for transportation, commerce, and socio-economic development in the state.
The statement noted that the inaugural commercial flight, which departed the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport to Abuja on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, represents a significant stride in the state’s infrastructural development and commitment to economic growth.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the Chairman, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, hailed ValueJet for its pioneering role and dedication to expanding air connectivity across Nigeria, particularly from the Gateway State.
“The commencement of commercial flight operations at the Gateway Airport, pioneered by ValueJet owned by our indigenous man, Otunba Kunle Soname, will undoubtedly unlock tremendous opportunities in commerce, investment, and tourism.
It will also create jobs and foster an enabling environment for socio-economic activities, including sports, to thrive,” Ogunsiji said.
He emphasized that improved air travel infrastructure is essential for modern sports development as it eases logistics for teams and athletes, encourages sports enthusiasts and tourists to visit Ogun State, and boosts the commercial viability of local sporting activities.
The SWAN Chairman commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for delivering the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, which boasts one of the longest runways in the West African sub-region, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.
He wished ValueJet safe operations and assured that the association looks forward to utilizing the new air route to enhance the coverage and promotion of sporting activities within and beyond the state.
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