Air travellers in Oyo State and neighbouring regions have marked a significant milestone as the first direct international airline service from Ibadan took off today, 18th February 2026. The historic flight, linking Ibadan directly to London, began operations from the newly upgraded Ibadan Airport, which recently received international status following infrastructure enhancements and regulatory approval.
Passengers on board expressed excitement and pride as the aircraft departed the Oyo State capital, opening up new opportunities for business travel, tourism, and personal journeys without the need to connect through Lagos or Abuja. Government officials, airport authorities, and community leaders who gathered to witness the launch hailed the development as a major boost for the region’s economy and global accessibility.
The commencement of this international route is expected to attract more airlines and destinations to Ibadan, enhancing trade and cultural exchange while reducing travel time and costs for residents of the South-West and neighbouring states. Stakeholders also said that the successful launch reflects ongoing investments in regional aviation infrastructure and Nigeria’s broader efforts to expand its global air transport network.
