The Ogun state government in Nigeria has announced significant developments in its aviation sector, including launching international flights from Gateway International Airport in Iperu. The airline Air Peace is scheduled to operate flights to London this summer, connecting the airport directly to Gatwick and Heathrow airports. The airport's infrastructure has been upgraded, featuring a large runway capable of handling aircraft such as the Airbus A380, with Boeing 777 aircraft planned for the route.
Air Peace's CEO, Allen Onyema, confirmed that they received approval from Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to proceed with these operations. The government has also outlined broader plans to develop the airport further by constructing an international conference and convention center and a five-star hotel to boost global business and tourism activities. Cargo operations have already begun, with Ethiopian Airlines and other European carriers preparing to start services, aiming to facilitate approximately 50 cargo flights from April to the end of the year.
Additionally, the state has established Gateway Airlines, which has acquired Mitsubishi CRJ900 aircraft to enhance domestic connectivity among Ogun, Abuja, and other Nigerian cities. Governor Dapo Abiodun expects the airport to become Nigeria’s third-busiest after Lagos and Abuja, thereby positioning Ogun as a major regional aviation hub. Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, with its 30 aircraft, already operates routes connecting several West African capitals and other international destinations. These developments illustrate Ogun’s ambition to become a prominent center for international business, tourism, and air cargo in Nigeria.
