Adejoke Adeleye, Abeokuta
In a visit steeped in both political nostalgia and developmental milestones, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to arrive in Ogun State tomorrow, Saturday, April 4, 2026.
This visit marks a significant return to the state where, in June 2022, President Tinubu—then an All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant—boldly declared that it was his turn to lead Nigeria.
On January 25, 2023, during the election campaign, he delivered his now-historic “Emi Lo Kan” speech, which redefined the trajectory of Nigerian politics.
The President’s visit, originally scheduled for earlier this week on April 2, 2026, was briefly postponed to allow him to travel to Jos to commiserate with victims of recent attacks—a move that underscored his administration’s current focus on national security.
In January 2023, when he stood at the Moshood Abiola Stadium as a presidential candidate, Tinubu spoke of a “Renewed Hope” for Nigeria. Returning now as President, his itinerary in the Gateway State is less about political rhetoric and more about commissioning major infrastructure projects that align with that vision.
The centerpiece of the visit is the Gateway International Cargo Airport in Iperu. The President will officially flag off operations at the facility, which is designed to position Ogun State as a premier aviation and logistics hub in West Africa.
Other key activities include the inauguration of two newly acquired commercial aircraft under the state’s aviation initiative, Gateway Air, in partnership with ValueJet, and the commissioning of the reconstructed Sapade–Ilishan Road, which will be officially renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway.
The visit will also feature the launch of 1,000 electric bikes under the state’s EV mobility initiative, as well as the inspection of agricultural tractors aimed at boosting food security.
Additionally, the President will inaugurate the new Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service and hand over 80 security vehicles to strengthen the state’s safety architecture.
For Dapo Abiodun and the people of Ogun State, hosting the President represents a comprehensive showcase of strategic investments in infrastructure, security, and economic development.
The President’s return also offers a moment to weigh the promises of 2023 against the realities of 2026. While the nation continues to navigate economic reforms, the projects being unveiled in Ogun represent the tangible “dividends of democracy” promised during his hard-fought campaign.
“Three years ago, he came seeking a mandate. Tomorrow, he returns to see how that mandate is being used to build the future.”
Meanwhile, President Tinubu is expected to arrive at the Gateway International Airport at approximately 12:00 p.m., where he will be received by Governor Abiodun, traditional rulers—including the Alake of Egbaland, Michael Adedotun Gbadebo—as well as other prominent traditional leaders and top APC stakeholders.
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