United Nigeria Airlines plans to launch cargo operations at Ekiti airport in January 2027, while daily passenger flights are also expected to commence soon. The airline’s Executive Chairman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, announced the plans on Monday during the commissioning of Reeve Energy Limited’s aviation fuel tank farm at the airport. Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji said ongoing infrastructure upgrades would enable the airport to operate around the clock.
The developments could strengthen Ekiti State’s aviation capacity, particularly for agricultural exports, passenger connectivity and business activity. However, the proposed expansion depends on the readiness of supporting infrastructure and sufficient demand for the services.
Ekiti Airport Targets Cargo Exports and Daily Flights
Professor Okonkwo said United Nigeria Airlines would activate a cargo section of its flights by January 2027. He pledged that the airline would be ready to transport commercial cargo once the state commenced shipments. Destinations could include other Nigerian cities and international markets, depending on operational arrangements and export readiness.
“You have mentioned cargo agriculture. Let me promise you, His Excellency, for your own sake, I’m going to make sure that by January next year, we activate a cargo section of our flights, so that we can work out a deal,” Okonkwo said.
He added that the airline would be the first to lift commercial cargo from the airport once shipments became available. The commitment could offer agricultural producers another route to markets beyond Ekiti, although the scale of operations will depend on cargo volumes and logistics.
The airline’s chairman also said daily passenger flights would begin soon. Regular services could improve connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors, while creating additional opportunities for commercial activity around the airport.
United Nigeria Explains Ekiti Airport Partnership
Professor Okonkwo said United Nigeria Airlines did not apply for or lobby for the partnership with the Ekiti State Government. According to him, the government conducted due diligence, assessed available airlines and approached United Nigeria because of its fleet and operational capacity.
He also disclosed that the airline had accepted reduced passenger loads during periods of weak demand. On some flights, he said, the airline carried 40 passengers instead of 50, describing the decision as a sacrifice reflecting its confidence in the partnership and the government’s commitment.
Okonkwo further identified United Nigeria as Nigeria’s second-largest aviation fuel consumer after Air Peace. He said the new fuel facility could support the airline’s operations by providing a steady supply of aviation fuel at the airport.
The commissioning of Reeve Energy Limited’s tank farm therefore represents an important development for fuel availability. Reliable fuel infrastructure will be essential as the airport seeks to accommodate increased passenger and cargo activity.
Oyebanji Promises 24-Hour Operations at Ekiti Airport
Governor Oyebanji said the state government was working to complete key airport upgrades by the end of 2026. These include an upgrade of the Instrument Landing System (ILS), which he said had been certified, and an aerodrome ground lighting project costing more than ₦10 billion.
According to the governor, completing the projects would enable aircraft to land at any time, supporting round-the-clock airport operations.
“By the time we finish what we are doing with the airport by the end of the year by God’s grace, we should be able to complete the upgrade of the ILS that has been certified,” Oyebanji said.
He explained that the aerodrome ground lighting project was central to the planned expansion. However, actual operating hours will also depend on the completion, testing and operational readiness of the relevant systems.
The governor added that the state was pursuing an independent power producer (IPP) arrangement to provide electricity directly to the airport. He said the initiative would reduce dependence on external electricity supplies and help make the facility self-sufficient.
Oyebanji also commended Reeve Energy Nigeria Limited for investing in the state and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private investors.
Infrastructure Will Determine Growth
The planned cargo launch and proposed 24-hour operations could position Ekiti airport for a broader commercial role. Nevertheless, sustainable growth will require dependable power, aviation fuel, effective ground handling and sufficient passenger and cargo demand.
For agricultural exporters, the proposed cargo service could create new opportunities if reliable logistics and suitable international connections become available. For passengers, daily flights would offer more consistent travel options.
The next milestone will be completing the airport upgrades and translating the announced commitments into operational services. If delivered as planned, the developments could strengthen Ekiti’s aviation links and support the state’s wider economic ambitions.
