Table of Contents
Key Points:
- SIFAX partners with ECU Worldwide to enhance Less-than-Container Load (LCL) export activities, opening new global opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
- The partnership aims to support SMEs in Nigeria by offering LCL shipping, allowing businesses to share container space and reduce costs.
- This deal marks Nigeria’s first dedicated LCL export service, expanding Nigerian exporters’ reach via ECU Worldwide’s extensive network.
SIFAX Shipping Company Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, a leading multinational conglomerate under the leadership of Nigerian logistics tycoon Taiwo Afolabi, has entered a partnership with ECU Worldwide to enhance Less-than-Container Load (LCL) export activities, creating new opportunities for Nigerian businesses in the global market.
The collaboration aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that face challenges accessing international markets due to limited cargo volumes. LCL shipping allows businesses to share container space, paying only for the portion they use, unlike full-container-load (FCL) options.
Bridging export gaps for SMEs
Paul Linden, Managing Director of SIFAX Logistics Company Limited, emphasized that this new service responds to increasing customer inquiries. “Many SMEs and business owners aspire to enter the international market but are limited by their small shipment volumes. Our LCL service is tailored to bridge this gap, facilitating export activities and catalyzing growth for Nigeria’s export sector,” he said.
Adekunle Owobamirin, Assistant General Manager of SIFAX Shipping, highlighted that this partnership signifies the first dedicated LCL export service from Nigeria to the global market offered by a consolidator partnership. ECU Worldwide boasts an extensive network of 2,400 direct trade lanes across 180 countries, providing significant reach for Nigerian exporters.
“ECU has meticulously reviewed our facilities, and we have a dedicated team in place to ensure seamless operations,” Owobamirin remarked. “This collaboration unlocks a world of export opportunities for our clients.”
SIFAX Group: Nigerian conglomerate on the rise
Founded in 1988 by Nigerian lawyer Taiwo Afolabi, SIFAX Group is one of Africa’s fastest-growing multinational corporations, with diversified interests in aviation, oil and gas, maritime, haulage, logistics, and hospitality.
Afolabi’s strategic leadership has significantly influenced the group’s growth, making it a substantial contributor to the Nigerian economy and a source of employment opportunities for numerous professionals.
SIFAX, Changi eye Nigeria aviation boost
Earlier this year, SIFAX Group, in collaboration with its aviation partner, Singapore-based Changi Airports International, initiated discussions with the Nigerian federal government and Lagos State authorities. These talks center on forging a collaborative partnership aimed at propelling the nation’s aviation sector forward.
The SIFAX Group-Changi Airports International alliance signifies a concerted effort to leverage combined expertise and resources. This strategic partnership has the potential to significantly enhance airport operations and elevate the quality of aviation services across Nigeria.
