The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has commenced the validation process for the Gateway International Airport in Ogun State, a key step toward the launch of commercial flight operations at the newly constructed facility.
Officials from NAMA, led by the Manager of Flight Calibration Services, Engr. Miri Selzing, conducted critical flight checks at the airport on Monday. The visit marked the beginning of procedural validation to ensure all defined flight protocols align with operational and safety standards.
“Our purpose here is to verify that the procedures designed for this airport meet the necessary standards,” Engr. Selzing stated. “This is a significant phase in the certification process. We’ve conducted an in-air review and will now analyze the data to recommend any necessary adjustments.”
He commended the Ogun State government for delivering what he described as a “very impressive” airport. With a four-kilometer runway—the longest in the country—the facility is capable of accommodating all classes of aircraft.
Selzing highlighted the importance of installing key navigational aids, such as an Instrument Landing System (ILS), to further support safe flight operations, particularly in poor weather conditions. He expressed optimism that the airport would soon begin receiving commercial flights and could serve as a viable diversion point for aircraft from Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin.
Also speaking, Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, confirmed that NAMA had completed checks on runways “23 and 05” and identified waypoints necessary for approach procedures. He emphasized that the airport was nearing readiness for commercial certification.
“This is one of the final technical requirements before obtaining full commercial flight approval,” Akinsanya said. “While airport development is a continuous process globally, Gateway International Airport is currently 97% complete, with essential infrastructure including a control tower, air traffic control officers, and firefighting units already in place.”
The commissioning of Gateway International Airport represents a significant milestone for Ogun State, positioning it as an emerging aviation hub in Nigeria’s southwest.
