The Ogun State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated ValueJet Airlines and its owner, Otunba Kunle Soname, for successfully operating the first scheduled commercial flight at the newly inaugurated Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.

The historic flight, which departed for Abuja on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, marks a major milestone in Ogun State’s infrastructural advancement and its growing prominence within Nigeria’s aviation landscape.

In a statement made available to the press by the Association’s Secretary, Olusegun Folarin, the Chairman of Ogun SWAN, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, commended ValueJet for its pioneering spirit and commitment to strengthening air connectivity across the country, particularly from the Gateway State.

“The commencement of commercial flight operations at the Gateway Airport, pioneered by ValueJet, owned by our illustrious son, Otunba Kunle Soname, will undoubtedly unlock vast opportunities in commerce, investment, and tourism. This development will also create jobs and stimulate socio-economic growth, including the sports sector,” Ogunsiji said.

He noted that improved air transport infrastructure plays a crucial role in modern sports development, especially in easing logistics for teams and athletes, promoting sports tourism, and boosting the commercial appeal of local sporting events.

Ogunsiji also lauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, describing the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, which boasts one of the longest runways in the West African sub-region, as a monumental achievement capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.

The Ogun SWAN Chairman wished ValueJet safe and successful operations and expressed optimism that the new air route would enhance media coverage and the promotion of sporting activities within and beyond Ogun State.