The commencement of commercial flights at the Gateway International Airport was met with profound acclaim by Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu (Ogun Central), who described the event as the culmination of a decades-long dream for the people of Ogun State.

In a statement released following the historic maiden flight by ValueJet to Abuja on Tuesday, Senator Salisu reflected on the personal significance of the project, noting his involvement from its inception during his tenure as Chief of Staff to the Governor.

“This project is especially close to my heart because I was there from the very start,” the Senator stated. “To see it come to life like this is incredibly rewarding.”

He emphasized that the event transcended a mere ceremonial launch, calling it “the start of a whole new chapter for Ogun State—a chapter filled with economic opportunity, better connections, and real growth.”

Linking the infrastructure to his national role, Senator Salisu, who chairs the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, outlined a dual significance for the airport. He identified it not only as critical infrastructure that elevates the state's profile for business and travel but also as a “powerful catalyst for the digital future.”

“Progress needs both physical and digital connections,” he explained, “and this airport will be a hub for moving people, goods, and brilliant ideas—all of which are essential for the tech-driven growth we're pushing for at the national level.”

The Senator praised the vision of Governor Dapo Abiodun and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting projects that deliver "real, tangible progress" to the doorstep of his constituents.

“Our future is literally taking off right before our eyes,” Senator Salisu concluded. “And trust me, this is only the beginning.”