Gateway International Airport: A New Dawn for the proposed Remo State and the international community
Gateway International Airport: A New Dawn for the proposed Remo State and the international community
By Kolade Folarin Kadeshprince
On October 7, 2025, history was made in Nigeria’s southwestern region as Gateway International Airport officially commenced operations. The grand inauguration, led by Ogun State’s Executive Governor, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, marked a momentous milestone not only for Ogun State but also for the entire Remo region, which is poised to become Nigeria’s next commercial hub. The debut flight was operated by ValueJet, a burgeoning airline owned by Hon. Kunle Soname, a prominent Remo son and renowned philanthropist. The event signified more than just the opening of an airport; it symbolized a new era of economic growth, connectivity, and regional development.
A Strategic Location for a Bright Future
Nestled in the bustling Iperu-Ilishan Remo Road Iperu Remo, Gateway International Airport is positioned to serve as a critical gateway for both domestic and international travelers. Its strategic placement underscores its potential to transform Remo from a primarily commercial and cultural center into a major transportation nexus. The airport’s proximity to key towns and economic zones in Ogun State and beyond makes it an ideal hub for movement of goods and people, promising to boost trade, tourism, and investment in the Remo Ijebu region.
The idea of establishing a major airport in Remo has been a long-standing aspiration among past leaders and business magnates. With Nigeria’s economy increasingly shifting towards regional integration and infrastructural development, the Gateway International Airport is a timely addition that aligns with the federal government’s vision of improving transportation networks to foster economic prosperity.
A Landmark Investment and Visionary Leadership.
The commissioning of Gateway International Airport was a testament to visionary leadership and strategic accomplishment by Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun’s administration. The governor’s commitment to transforming Ogun State into an industrial, commercial, and technological powerhouse is clearly reflected in this project. The airport’s modern design, state-of-the-art facilities, and adherence to international aviation standards underscore the government’s dedication to excellence.
The choice of ValueJet as the airline debuting at the airport adds a significant local touch to the project. Owned by Hon. Kunle Soname, a renowned philanthropist and successful businessman from Ikenne in Remoland, ValueJet’s entry into the airport’s operations symbolizes the collaborative spirit of local entrepreneurship and national development. Soname’s investments in transportation, finance,sports,energy, communication and community-driven initiatives have earned him a reputation as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s private sector. His airline’s debut flight at Gateway International Airport marks a new chapter for regional airline services, promising increased connectivity and competitive fares for travelers.
Remo: The Future Commercial Nerve Center
Remo’s reputation as Nigeria’s commercial nerve center is well-earned and also the yearning for a Remo State is due. Historically known for its vibrant markets, thriving industries, and cultural richness, the region is increasingly being recognized for its strategic significance in Nigeria’s economic landscape. With the advent of Gateway International Airport, this status is set to be reinforced.
The airport is anticipated to catalyze a surge in business activities, attracting investments in logistics, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors. It will also bolster tourism, drawing visitors to the scenic aesthetics of Remoland, cultural festivals, and historical sites of Remo. Local entrepreneurs see the airport as a catalyst for job creation and infrastructure development, which will ripple positively across communities.
Looking Ahead: A Gateway to Prosperity
The opening of Gateway International Airport is a testament to Nigeria’s ongoing infrastructural renaissance. It signifies a commitment to modernizing transportation, expanding economic horizons, and elevating regional prominence. For Remo, it’s not just an airport; it’s a symbol of hope, progress, and the realization of long-held ambitions.
As flights commence and the airport begins to handle passenger and cargo traffic, stakeholders remain optimistic about its potential. The collaboration between government, private investors like Hon. Kunle Soname, and local communities exemplifies a collective effort to shape a prosperous future.
Gateway International Airport in Iperu Ilishan Remo is more than a transportation hub—it is a catalyst for growth, unity, and international recognition for Remo and Ogun State. With this new gateway, the region is set to soar to new heights, bridging Nigeria’s past achievements with its future aspirations. The world now watches as Remo steps boldly into a new chapter of economic empowerment and regional leadership.
