Godsent Ogbebor
SIFAX targets innovation-led expansion in 2026
SIFAX Group has set an innovation-driven growth agenda for 2026, with plans to strengthen operations, deepen technology use and expand its presence across West Africa.
The Group’s Chairman, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, disclosed this in his New Year message to employees, partners and stakeholders, where he outlined the company’s priorities for the year while reflecting on its performance in 2025.
Afolabi said the Group’s focus for 2026 is centred on growth through innovation, with emphasis on operational excellence, stronger collaboration across subsidiaries, sustainability and improved customer service.
He noted that the strategy is aimed at positioning the conglomerate to respond effectively to changes within the industry and emerging opportunities across its business lines.
According to him, the plan includes advancing technological integration in logistics and maritime operations, increasing the use of cleaner and sustainable energy solutions, and expanding the Group’s footprint in West Africa, particularly through its financial services businesses.
He added that the long-term goal remains to build a trusted, resilient and impactful African conglomerate with global relevance.
The chairman explained that the innovation push would also support SIFAX Group’s regional expansion drive as it seeks to consolidate its operations and scale up its financial services offerings across the sub-region.
Read also: SIFAX ICT Marks Five Years of Growth, Innovation in Port Operations
He said the outlook for 2026 builds on achievements recorded in 2025 despite economic pressures, regulatory shifts and global uncertainties.
Among the highlights was the performance of Skyway Aviation Handling Company, which recorded over 155 per cent profit growth in the first half of the year and secured new handling contracts with international airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines and Air Tanzania.
In the maritime sector, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited expanded its role in the general cargo business, while SIFAX Shipping Company Limited strengthened Nigeria’s export link with the introduction of direct less-than-container-load exports to the United Kingdom.
However, SIFAX Shipping Inland Container Limited also continued to play a key role in inland container terminal operations in the country.
The Group further broadened its diversification drive with the launch of SKYPAY Africa, a regional payment solution developed through its financial subsidiary, Sky Capital.
Afolabi also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to social responsibility through the Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation, which he said continued to support vulnerable individuals and communities.
Looking ahead, he stressed that innovation within SIFAX Group would extend beyond technology to people, culture and values, urging employees to uphold professionalism, integrity, teamwork and accountability as the organisation pursues its long-term vision.
