SIFAX Shipping Inland Container Terminal (ICT) Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has marked its fifth anniversary, celebrating a remarkable journey of transformation, innovation, and growth.
At a commemorative event held at its Lagos terminal, staff, management, and partners reflected on the company’s evolution since its inception in 2020, when the site was little more than a swampy, underdeveloped space.
Managing Director Paul Linden recounted the terminal’s humble beginnings, emphasising its original purpose as a solution to the congestion at Apapa ports. From an undeveloped piece of land with minimal infrastructure, the facility has since grown into a modern logistics hub equipped with advanced technologies and expanded capacity.
He highlighted key milestones, including the launch of the terminal’s first barge operation in December 2020, major infrastructure enhancements like reinforced flooring, and the introduction of Rubber Tyred Gantry cranes—rare among inland depots in Nigeria.
Linden noted that the final phase of a 15,000-square-metre upgrade is nearing completion, bringing the terminal to full operational standard. He acknowledged the challenges faced in the early days, particularly the site’s poor condition and lack of accessibility. Starting with just one terminal area, SIFAX ICT now operates two—Terminals A and B, with the facility expanding from 46,000 square metres in 2020 to over 82,000 square metres today. He credited the terminal’s progress to a dedicated and skilled workforce.
Chief Security Officer, Cashmir Ihedioha, spoke on the transformation of the terminal’s security and orderliness through collaboration with government agencies such as NIMASA, NPA, and the Lagos State Task Force. He outlined the implementation of a structured traffic system and the installation of 69 CCTV cameras, ensuring compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and enhancing safety.
Looking to the future, Linden revealed plans to build a quay wall, enabling direct vessel calls and reducing reliance on congested seaports. With government approvals secured, this development is expected to revolutionise inland terminal operations in Nigeria. Additionally, there are plans to convert much of the terminal’s equipment to gas-powered alternatives to support greener and more sustainable operations.
The event concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting by members of the management team, commemorating five years of exceptional progress and setting the stage for the terminal’s next chapter of innovation and service excellence.