Tinubu Commissions Ogun Agro-Cargo Airport, Signals Boost for Farm Exports

News in Brief:

-President Tinubu has commissioned an agro-cargo airport in Ogun State to boost agricultural exports, improve logistics, and strengthen value chains for farmers and agribusinesses.

-The project is expected to reduce post-harvest losses, expand market access, and drive economic growth through increased agro-export capacity.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Iperu, Ogun State, alongside new aircraft under Gateway Air and supporting logistics infrastructure, in a move expected to reshape agricultural trade and agribusiness opportunities in the region.

The airport, developed by the Ogun State Government, is designed as a dedicated cargo hub for agricultural exports while also serving as an alternative to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. For farmers, exporters, and agribusiness owners, the facility offers a critical solution to long-standing challenges around post-harvest losses, logistics delays, and limited access to international markets.

A New Gateway for Agricultural Exports

Speaking at the commissioning, President Tinubu emphasised that the project aligns with broader efforts to empower states and unlock economic potential through infrastructure. He noted that investments in transportation, energy, and security would strengthen agricultural value chains and improve rural productivity.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described the airport and accompanying projects as part of a wider strategy to drive agricultural advancement, improve mobility, and stimulate economic transformation. He highlighted the inclusion of tractors, rural road networks, and power infrastructure as complementary investments that will directly benefit farmers and agro-processors.

What It Means for Farmers and Agribusiness

For agribusiness operators, the airport’s cargo-focused design is particularly significant. According to Tunde Lemo, the facility will accelerate the export of perishable commodities such as fruits, vegetables, and processed goods, reducing transit time and improving product quality at international destinations.

“This is not just about passenger traffic; it is about export growth,” Lemo said, noting that the project could significantly boost Ogun State’s internally generated revenue and position it among Nigeria’s top-performing states within five years.

Additional projects commissioned include a 30MW power plant, key road networks linking farming communities to markets, and modern logistics support systems. Together, these developments are expected to enhance farm-to-market access, lower transportation costs, and increase profitability across the agricultural value chain.

For farmers and agribusiness investors, the new agro-cargo airport signals expanding export opportunities and a stronger push toward value-added agriculture in Nigeria.