SIFAX Shipping Inland Container Terminal (ICT) Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has celebrated its fifth anniversary, which the organisation says are five years of transformation, innovation, and customer-focused excellence.
Mr. Paul Linden, Managing Director, recalled how the terminal started as an intervention to decongest Apapa ports and evolved into a modern logistics hub.
Giving an insight into future growth plans, he said: “We’ve secured approval for direct vessel operations. Once complete, the project will redefine how inland terminals operate in Nigeria”, adding that plans are underway to convert most of the terminal’s equipment to gas-powered ones for cleaner and greener operations.
“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 functional, world-class terminal that reflects years of investment and teamwork,” he said.
At an event held at the company’s Lagos terminal recently, management, staff, and partners reflected on the journey that began in 2020 when the facility was little more than a swampy expanse with limited infrastructure.
Linden highlighted major milestones, including the first barge operation in December 2020, extensive floor reinforcement, and the introduction of Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes, a rare feature among inland depots in Nigeria.
“The transformation has been incredible. We are now completing the final phase of our 15,000-square-metre upgrade to bring the entire terminal to full standard.” he added.
While reflecting on the progress made at the terminal, Linden said the journey had not been smooth sailing.
“When we started, the site was overgrown and flooded. We began with what we called Lot Four, resurfaced the floors, and created access for barge operations. We started with just one terminal, but today, we run two – terminals A and B. From 46,000 square metres in 2020, we’ve grown to over 82,000 square metres today. The vision of the terminal is also driven by competent and motivated workforce”, he added.
Also speaking, Mr. Cashmir Ihedioha, the terminal’s Chief Security Officer, explained how collaboration with agencies like NIMASA, NPA, and the Lagos State Task Force transformed the once-chaotic environment into a well-regulated facility.
“We introduced a structured traffic system and installed 69 CCTV cameras to ensure round-the-clock surveillance. The terminal is fully compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code,” he said.
Looking ahead, Linden said the terminal was preparing to build a quay wall to allow direct vessel calls and reduce dependence on congested seaports.
