Allied Air and SAHCOL are preparing to initiate commercial cargo flight operations at Gateway International Airport, Iperu, located in the Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State. This milestone marks a significant advancement for the state’s aviation and economic growth initiatives.
The planned cargo operations build upon the successful launch of passenger flights, which started on October 7, 2025, making the airport accessible to travelers throughout Nigeria.
With the introduction of cargo services, the airport aims to become a major logistics hub. It is expected to facilitate the transport of goods both nationally and internationally, enhancing trade activity, regional connectivity, and supply chain efficiency. After a recent meeting with Ogun State's Governor, Dapo Abiodun, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of Sifax Group and partner at SAHCO Plc, expressed that this development signifies a historic milestone.
He stated, “We are bringing chartered 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.” He emphasized that the airport will bolster import activities and enhance the export of agricultural products from Ogun State and the wider Southwest.
Additionally, Captain Val Tongo, Managing Director of Allied Air, acknowledged the impressive infrastructure at the airport and mentioned the possibility of launching a cargo flight training school at the site.
Stating that many states operate cargo airports, Tongo underscored Ogun State's lead, particularly due to its proximity to Lagos, adding that effective infrastructure not only needs to be constructed but must also be economically viable.
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. King, CEO of Air Atlantic, praised the infrastructure quality and expressed interest in collaborating with the Ogun State Government on cargo handling initiatives. He remarked, “I am very impressed with what I saw at the airport and ready to partner with 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.”
The introduction of cargo operations is anticipated to result in thousands of direct and indirect jobs in sectors including aviation services, warehousing, trucking, cold-chain logistics, packaging, and export processing. Moreover, the airport is expected to enhance agricultural exports, minimize post-harvest losses, attract manufacturing companies, and boost government revenue through various services.
Situated near Lagos and benefitting from its expanding infrastructure, Gateway International Airport is set to transform Iperu into a pivotal regional logistics center while alleviating pressure on existing cargo routes in Nigeria.
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