Renovation of Olodo Hajj Camp to begin, as Oyo targets 2026 airlifting from SL Akintola Int’l Airport
BY STEPHEN GBADAMOSI
The Upgrading Committee of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan, has intensified efforts to ensure that airlifting of 2026 intending pilgrims from Oyo State takes off from the airport, in line with the vision of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration.
Speaking during a visit to the leadership of the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board and an inspection of facilities at the Hajj Camp, Olodo, Ibadan, committee chairman, Honourable Abimbola Adekanmbi, said the inspection was necessary to identify areas requiring urgent attention.
He emphasised the need to put in place essential facilities at both the Hajj Camp and the airport ahead of the visit by the assessment team from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other regulatory agencies, noting that this would facilitate prompt approval.
Adekanmbi also pledged to personally support the renovation of critical facilities pending the governor’s approval and the release of funds.
He called for synergy among all relevant stakeholders to ensure the realisation of the plan for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims to depart from the Alakia Airport.
The chairman, according to a statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, further urged the Board to submit its proposal promptly to enable the renovation work to commence without delay.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, acknowledged the efforts of Governor Makinde and the committee on the ongoing airport upgrade, saying that the pace of work at the airport was commendable.
Sheikh Atere revealed that the Board had made significant progress, which he attributed to continued support received from the governor.
Highlighting the achievements of the Board and its challenges, Sheikh Atere appreciated Honourable Adekanmbi for the gesture extended to the Board.
