Nigerian logistics mogul Taiwo Afolabi opens new projects to boost community life

Nigerian logistics mogul Taiwo Afolabi, through his conglomerate SIFAX Group, has commissioned a series of community projects in Ogun State, underscoring his commitment to social development and his interest in improving the lives of residents.

The projects, which cut across education, commerce, faith and recreation, mark a new phase of engagement between the company and the communities along the Lagos-Ogun border.

SIFAX opens ICT hub, market stalls

The newly inaugurated facilities include the Chief Samson Afolabi Centre for Information and Technology Services, a 100-seat ICT hub, the Isade Central Mosque, a community security office, 27 open market stalls, and a modern recreational park.

These investments add to SIFAX Group’s earlier efforts in the region, such as a community health center, seasonal road repairs, and the construction of St. Mark’s Church Auditorium and vicarage. Together, they form a broader picture of private-sector participation in community life.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Wale Afolabi, elder brother of the businessman and a representative of the chairman, emphasized the long-term vision behind the projects.

“SIFAX Group and Dr. Taiwo Afolabi believe in the principle of social impact through direct support for communities across the country,” he said. “This is not just about physical infrastructure. It’s about creating opportunities for people through education, commerce, faith, and security. Our goal is to build stronger, more resilient communities.”

Creating jobs, building empires and giving back

Taiwo Afolabi has long positioned philanthropy alongside business growth. He is known for offering employment across social and cultural lines, giving opportunities without regard to background.

His business journey began in 1988, when he launched SIFAX Group, which has since expanded into aviation, oil and gas, logistics and hospitality. Despite the company’s international growth, he has remained actively involved in its expansion often focusing on areas where infrastructure can support Nigeria’s trade ambitions.

Over the decades, SIFAX has grown into a diversified operator with offices in Ghana, South Africa, the United States, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, while new ventures are taking shape in Djibouti and Equatorial Guinea.

One defining moment came when the group acquired Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) through a government-led privatization. The rebranded SAHCO became the anchor of SIFAX’s aviation business, while its concessions at Port Harcourt Ports Terminal “A” in 2006 and Tin Can Island Ports Terminal “C” deepened its presence in maritime trade.

Afolabi’s SAHCO stake climbs to $48 million

That combination of moves has positioned SIFAX as a central player in Nigeria’s logistics and aviation sectors. SAHCO has staged a sharp turnaround under Afolabi’s watch, driven by a focus on efficiency, investment in staff and infrastructure and a push for stronger local participation in industries long dominated by foreign players.

His 60.76 percent stake in SAHCO is now valued at $48 million. That’s up $30 million since the start of 2025, when it was worth nearly $18 million. In the first half of this year, SAHCO’s revenue rose 74 percent to N21.06 billion ($13.7 million), while profit surged 155.4 percent, reflecting new partnerships, regional expansion and stronger adherence to industry standards.