President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to defeat banditry and terrorism while prioritising human capital development as a pathway to sustainable national growth.
Tinubu made the declaration on Saturday during the inauguration of the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, a flagship project of the Ogun State Government.
“We will win over banditry and terrorism,” the president assured, expressing confidence that ongoing security measures would yield positive results.
He described infrastructure development as critical to strengthening Nigeria’s economic corridors, noting that projects like the new airport would enhance connectivity, investment, and overall economic productivity.
The president commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for what he called transformative leadership, particularly in advancing the state’s aviation sector through the airport project.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Tinubu also inaugurated the state-owned Gateway Airline, alongside key road and housing projects.
He praised Abiodun’s performance in office, stating that the governor had justified the confidence placed in him by both the presidency and the people of Ogun State.
“In less than seven years, you have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria. I have no regrets in supporting you,” Tinubu said.
The president expressed satisfaction that increased federal allocations to states were being judiciously utilised for development, congratulating Ogun residents for supporting a government delivering measurable progress.
Highlighting his administration’s people-centred approach, Tinubu added that Nigeria was overcoming past mismanagement and regaining global respect.
“We are back as a nation, well respected and highly recognised,” he said, linking the airport project to broader investments in gas, energy, and economic infrastructure.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also spoke at the event, described the airport as a landmark achievement and a significant milestone in Ogun State’s history.
He noted the improved accessibility the facility provides, revealing that travel time from the airport to his residence had been significantly reduced compared to arriving via Lagos.
“I am happy to witness this historic occasion. The governor has done us proud,” Obasanjo said.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying they had eased financial pressures on states, particularly in salary payments.
He also lauded Abiodun for effectively utilising increased federal allocations to drive development.
Governor Abiodun, in his address, credited Tinubu’s administration with repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth through clear and decisive economic reforms.
He said the Gateway International Airport would handle commercial flights to Abuja and feature a nearly 4-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft, alongside a modern control tower, advanced aviation systems, and cargo infrastructure.
Abiodun added that the facility includes a Customs base and is evolving into an aerotropolis, positioning Ogun State as a major hub for business and logistics.
Beyond aviation, the governor highlighted the construction and rehabilitation of over 1,600 kilometres of roads across the state, including major routes such as the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway, Sagamu Interchange–Papalanto Expressway, and the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade corridor, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure expansion as a driver of economic growth and improved quality of life.
