SIFAX Shipping Inland Container Terminal (ICT) Limited, a subsidiary of the SIFAX Group, has commemorated its fifth anniversary, marking half a decade of remarkable transformation, innovation, and customer-driven excellence.
At a colourful ceremony held at the company’s Lagos terminal, management, staff, and partners reflected on the facility’s humble beginnings in 2020 a swampy expanse with minimal infrastructure that has since evolved into a world-class logistics hub.
Mr. Paul Linden, Managing Director of SIFAX ICT, recounted the terminal’s growth journey, describing it as one of vision, persistence, and teamwork.
“When we began, the ground was soft, there was no quay, and only a few warehouses stood. But we saw potential. Today, SIFAX ICT is a fully functional, world-class terminal that reflects years of investment and dedication,” he said.
Linden highlighted key milestones, including the terminal’s first barge operation in December 2020, major floor reinforcement works, and the deployment of Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes a rare feature among inland depots in Nigeria.
He further revealed that the company is finalizing the upgrade of its 15,000-square-metre expansion project to bring the entire 82,000-square-metre terminal up to full operational standard.
Reflecting on early challenges, Linden noted that the project began with extensive land reclamation and infrastructure work.
“We started with what we called Lot Four resurfacing the floors and creating access for barge operations. From 46,000 square metres in 2020, we’ve grown to over 82,000 square metres today, driven by a dedicated and competent workforce,” he stated.
Also speaking, the terminal’s Chief Security Officer, Mr. Cashmir Ihedioha, lauded the collaboration with agencies such as NIMASA, NPA, and the Lagos State Task Force, which helped transform the once-chaotic environment into a well-regulated and secure facility.
“We introduced a structured traffic management system and installed 69 CCTV cameras for 24-hour surveillance. The terminal is now fully compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code,” Ihedioha said.
Looking to the future, Linden disclosed that the terminal has secured approval to construct a quay wall that will enable direct vessel operations a development he said would redefine inland terminal logistics in Nigeria.
“Once completed, this project will significantly reduce pressure on the seaports and set a new benchmark for inland terminal operations,” he added, noting that plans are also underway to convert most terminal equipment to gas-powered systems in pursuit of cleaner and greener operations.
A highlight of the celebration was the ceremonial cake-cutting by key management staff, including Mrs. Elue Ogom Evelyn, Assistant General Manager (Billing); Mr. Paul Linden, Managing Director; Chief Kayode Olowo, Head of Terminal; and Mrs. Funmi Oguntuase, Head of HR.
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