SIFAX Group, in collaboration with its aviation partner, Changi Airports International from Singapore, is engaging in discussions with the Federal Government and the Lagos State government to foster strategic collaboration for the development of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
SIFAX Group, through its subsidiary SAHCO Plc, has already established itself as a key player in the aviation ground handling domain. The consortium, however, aims to expand its business footprint within the aviation sector, exploring opportunities in aviation terminal management, airline management and development, and other ancillary services.
In recent meetings with key stakeholders, including the Vice President, Kasim Shettima, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SIFAX Group reiterated its commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector. The company emphasized its capacity to make substantial contributions that will positively impact the nation in terms of job creation, tourism development, and overall economic growth.
Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of the Consortium, highlighted SIFAX Group’s track record of turning around enterprises for profitability, citing the success of SAHCO Plc as a notable example. SAHCO Plc, carved out of the defunct Nigeria Airways and concessioned to SIFAX Group in 2009, has become the leading cargo handling company in West Africa and is listed on the Nigeria Stock Exchange.
Afolabi stated, “Our port terminal at Tin Can Island Port, Lagos, is another example of our capacity and expertise in turning around enterprises for growth and profitability. We are proud of the innovations we have introduced that have transformed the terminal into the leading indigenous terminal in the Lagos port.”
The Consortium aims to leverage its experiences, expertise, and technical partnership with Changi Airports International to support the Federal Government and Lagos State government in their initiatives to establish airlines and develop and manage airport terminals across the country.
Roy Toh, Director of International Projects at Changi Airports International, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “The Singapore Airport is a global reference of how aviation terminal management can be done successfully. We hope to replicate our success here in Nigeria. This is why we have partnered with a company with a credible track record, SIFAX Group, and we are open to collaboration with the government.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended SIFAX Group for its various investments in the state that have significantly contributed to its economic growth.
He assured the consortium of the state’s openness to collaboration and partnership.