By kehinde Ajayi
The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development today, 10 December 2025, made history as it honoured the pioneer personalities involved in the first commercial flight to land at the Ekiti Agro Allied International Cargo Airport. The recognition was presented by the Director General of the Bureau, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, who described the moment as a significant milestone in Ekiti’s aviation, tourism, and economic renaissance.
Those honoured were Muyiwa Olumilua, former Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, who became the first Ekiti indigene to step down from the maiden commercial flight not only because of the event but visiting home to see his family , Captain Ahmad I. Mahmoud, Director of Operations and Director of Flight Operations of United Nigeria Airlines, who piloted the historic landing; and Mr. Michael Uchegbu, the Chief Commercial Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, whose coordination and strategic commercial support made the inaugural operation seamless and successful.
Barrister Ojo-Lanre who was at the Airport with Peculiar Ekiran SA Tourism Development , said the recognitions were bestowed to immortalise the individuals who have now become part of Ekiti’s aviation heritage. He described them as pioneers who demonstrated confidence in the state’s new aviation infrastructure, contributed to the advancement of Ekiti’s tourism economy, and helped open a new chapter of commercial connectivity for the state. He noted that today’s honour represents Ekiti’s commitment to documenting history properly, celebrating excellence, and acknowledging partners whose actions strengthen the state’s tourism-led economic vision.
He added that the pilot’s professionalism, the airline’s commercial leadership, and the symbolism of having an Ekiti son as the first passenger to disembark all reinforce the narrative of a state ready for global engagement. According to him, “This is not just a flight landing; it is the beginning of a new economic gateway. These men are the first names written in the aviation chapter of Ekiti State, and generations will read about them.”
In their remarks, the honourees expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. Muyiwa Olumilua described the honour as emotional and unforgettable, noting that stepping onto Ekiti soil from the historic flight was a moment of pride. Captain Mahmoud thanked the state for its bold investment in aviation infrastructure and expressed optimism about a long and productive partnership with United Nigeria Airlines. Mr. Uchegbu commended the visionary leadership driving Ekiti’s development, affirming that the new airport has the potential to become a major hub for tourism, agriculture, trade, and commerce.
With this symbolic recognition, the Ekiti Agro Allied International Cargo Airport further asserts itself as a gateway to tourism, agribusiness, investment, and long-term prosperity. The state celebrates not only a successful flight but the dawn of a defining chapter in Ekiti’s economic story.