Commercial cargo flight operations are set to commence at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, marking a significant milestone in the state’s aviation expansion and economic development agenda.

The development builds on the airport’s earlier breakthrough, following the commencement of passenger flight operations on October 7, 2025, which opened the facility to domestic travellers and positioned it as a new aviation hub in the South-West.

With the introduction of cargo services, the airport is expected to emerge as a strategic logistics centre, facilitating the movement of goods within Nigeria and to international destinations, while strengthening trade flows, regional connectivity and supply chains.

Speaking after a meeting with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Chairman of Sifax Group and its aviation partner, SAHCO Plc, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, described the launch of cargo operations as historic.

“We are bringing chartered cargo flights to Iperu, and I have not seen any domestic airport in Nigeria that meets this standard. The infrastructure here is exceptional for cargo operations,” Afolabi said. He noted that the facility would support increased imports while boosting exports, particularly agricultural produce from Ogun State and the wider South-West region.

According to him, the airport will serve as a major platform for agribusiness, manufacturing logistics and international trade, urging investors to leverage Ogun State’s business-friendly environment.

Managing Director of Allied Air, Captain Val Tongo, said his team was impressed by the airport’s infrastructure and disclosed that the airline was exploring the establishment of a cargo flight training school at the facility.

“Many states operate cargo airports, but Ogun State is clearly ahead, especially given its proximity to Lagos. What matters is not just building infrastructure but ensuring it is functional and economically viable,” he said.

Also speaking, Chief Executive Officer of Air Atlantic, Mr King, commended the quality of facilities at the airport and expressed readiness to partner with the Ogun State Government in cargo handling operations.

“I am very impressed with what I saw and ready to partner with the Ogun State Government in cargo handling. We operate cargo flights to Nigeria and other West African countries and are prepared to make Ogun a centre of cargo business in Nigeria,” he said.

Stakeholders project that the commencement of cargo operations will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across aviation services, warehousing, trucking, cold-chain logistics, packaging and export processing. The development is also expected to boost agricultural exports, reduce post-harvest losses, attract manufacturing firms and increase government revenue through airport services and allied businesses.

With its strategic location close to Lagos and expanding infrastructure, Gateway International Airport is poised to transform Iperu into a major regional logistics hub while easing pressure on existing cargo routes across the country.