Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has pledged to upgrade the Ibadan Airport to international standards within 18 months.
He made this announcement at the Hijrah 1446 luncheon, organized by the state government on Wednesday.
Makinde assured that the state has the resources to drive the project and will announce a committee to steer the vision before the end of the week.
He also promised that Hajj pilgrims would be airlifted from Ibadan Airport to Saudi Arabia before the end of his tenure, according to Independent.
The governor called for unity and peace in the state, regardless of religious differences, and emphasized his administration’s commitment to doing things in the best interest of Oyo State.
The event was attended by top government officials, Islamic scholars, and dignitaries, who commended Governor Makinde’s leadership style and support for the Muslim community.
He said: “We thank God for sustaining our lives till today. We appreciate him for a new beginning. The significance of a new year means we should also, as humans, begin new things.
“Today is a day for celebration, because we already observed the Hijrah holiday before now. Part of the things we want you to be doing is to wipe the slate clean and start a new beginning, especially in Oyo State.
“There are a lot of challenges we are facing as a nation and as a state but I have the assurance that we will surmount those challenges.
“Please, support this government. I came to you to beg to apply and you made up your mind to give me the opportunity to serve the state. I will forever remain grateful for the opportunity.
“Many people wanted the same opportunity but could not get it. They had the money to buy it but you didn’t sell it. You all came together irrespective of religious leanings to give us this opportunity and I will, forever, cherish it.
“This is a responsible government and it is your government and we will always do things in the best interest of Oyo State.
“Before the end of this week, I will make announcement on the committee that will champion the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport.
“I am more than confident now that before my tenure ends, those going for Hajj operation would take off from Ibadan to Mecca and Medina.
“When I make the announcement on or before Friday, I will give them 18 months to complete everything, because we have the money to make it happen. So, my message for us is to strive for a new Oyo State where love, unity and peace will reign supreme.”
The governor, who used the opportunity to commend the chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheik Hashim Olamide Ateere, on the 2024 Hajj operations, said the smoothness of the operations was remarkable.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Deputy Governor of the state, Barr. Bayo Lawal acknowledged the total support of Governor Makinde to the Muslim Ummah, saying this has ensured peace and development in the state.
In his lecture at the event, the guest lecturer, Sheik Najimudeen Alkubroh, extolled the uncommon virtues of Governor Makinde.
He noted that with his style of leadership, he has proven to be the kind of “worthy leader that Nigeria needs.”
The chairman on the occasion, Chief Bayo Oyero, called on Muslims and Islamic scholars to always remember the new calendar year and teach their followers the importance of Hijrah.
In their separate goodwill messages, Professor Kamil Olosho, Professor Musliudeen Yahya and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu emphasised the need for the declaration of Hijrah holiday in the country.
