SIFAX Shipping ICT Marks Five Years of Innovation and Growth

SIFAX Shipping Inland Container Terminal (ICT) Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has
celebrated its fifth anniversary, marking five years of transformation, innovation, and customer-
focused excellence.
At an event held at the company’s Lagos terminal, 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.
Mr. Paul Linden, Managing Director, recalled how the terminal started as an intervention to
decongest Apapa ports and evolved into a modern logistics hub.
“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.
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.”
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.

“We’ve secured approval for direct vessel operations. Once complete, the project will redefine
how inland terminals operate in Nigeria,” he noted, adding that plans are underway to convert
most of the terminal’s equipment to gas-powered ones for cleaner and greener operations.