Nigerian tycoon Taiwo Afolabi’s group halts port operations in wake of terminal fire

Sifax Group, a leading multinational conglomerate under the leadership of Nigerian logistics tycoon Taiwo Afolabi, has halted port operations at its terminal due to a fire outbreak over the weekend. The incident occurred on Saturday, February 24, impacting the facilities of Port and Cargo Handling Services Limited, a key subsidiary of the conglomerate.

In response to the crisis, the company has swiftly collaborated with relevant agencies, particularly the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Island Command, to expedite the restoration of normal port operations by Monday, February 26, 2024.

According to a statement from Sifax Group’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, Olumuyiwa Akande, the company expressed its commitment to working closely with authorities to address the aftermath of the fire. The inferno had a significant impact on infrastructure, including the destruction of the IT office. However, Sifax Group assured stakeholders that its robust backup protocols prevented any loss of data.

The conglomerate extended its reassurance to clearing agents, consignees, and port users, emphasizing the operational effectiveness of its approved business continuity plan designed to ensure uninterrupted services during such incidents.

Established in 1988 by Taiwo Afolabi, a Nigerian lawyer and logistics entrepreneur, Sifax Group has grown into one of Africa’s fastest-growing multinational corporations. The conglomerate boasts diversified interests in aviation, oil and gas, maritime, haulage, logistics, and hospitality. Afolabi’s strategic leadership has propelled the group into the energy sector, aligning with its overarching expansion strategy.

Afolabi’s experience, prudent organizational practices, and astute business acumen have played a pivotal role in steering Sifax Group’s growth trajectory. The conglomerate has become a significant contributor to the Nigerian economy, providing direct and indirect employment opportunities for numerous qualified Nigerian professionals.

Earlier this year, under Taiwo Afolabi’s leadership, Sifax Group forged a partnership with a Singaporean firm to advance Nigeria’s aviation industry. Discussions centered on collaborative efforts aimed at driving innovation and progress in the sector.

In August 2023, Sifax Group made a substantial investment by acquiring 13 new trucks, bolstering its operational capabilities. This strategic move elevates the group’s fleet to a total of 114 vehicles, positioning it for enhanced market presence and competitiveness in long-distance and interstate deliveries