The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport (EAICA), located in Ado-Ekiti, has received the green light from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to commence non-scheduled flight operations.
This approval, effective from December 15, 2024, marks a significant milestone for the state’s development agenda.
The approval comes in a letter dated December 11, 2024, and was addressed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
According to the NCAA, the permit allows the airport to operate non-scheduled flights under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for a six-month period, ending on June 15, 2025.
Captain Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of Civil Aviation at NCAA, signed the letter.
The decision, according to the letter, responds to the state government’s application for operational clearance.
However, the NCAA emphasized that the six-month window would enable the agency to validate outstanding corrective measures.
These pending actions stem from a recent inspection report that highlighted gaps in the airport’s compliance.
Key areas requiring attention include Air Traffic Services, Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services, Aviation Security, and Meteorological Services.
The Ekiti State Government has already signed agreements with federal aviation agencies to meet these compliance requirements.
This milestone also paves the way for private jets and chartered flights to use the airport between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.
Governor Oyebanji expressed his delight at the NCAA’s approval.
“This is a welcome development and a clear justification for the state’s investment in this critical project,” he said.
The governor also reiterated that the airport’s primary purpose is to drive the socioeconomic development of Ekiti State.
“The airport will make Ekiti more accessible and open new opportunities for growth and investment,” Oyebanji added.
The approval is a preparatory step toward securing full operational clearance for commercial flights.
New airports in Nigeria typically undergo this phased approach to ensure they meet the rigorous standards of the NCAA.
Governor Oyebanji had assured stakeholders earlier this year that the airport would become operational before the end of 2024.
The NCAA’s approval brings that promise closer to reality.
The Ekiti State Government is confident that this development will attract investors, improve transportation, and enhance economic activities in the state.
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, echoed these sentiments in a statement released on December 12, 2024.
“Governor Oyebanji has consistently championed this project as a game-changer for Ekiti State. We are thrilled that the NCAA has recognized the progress made,” Oyebode said.
Ekiti Airport’s journey has been one of persistence and commitment.
The state government signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Service Level Agreements to ensure the airport meets national and international aviation standards.
