Joyce Mmereole Okoli
In a landmark move set to reshape Nigeria’s international trade landscape, SIFAX Shipping Company Ltd. has launched a direct Less-than-Container Load (LCL) export service from Nigeria to the United Kingdom, eliminating the traditional need for costly and time-consuming transshipments through third-party countries.
The new service, delivered in partnership with Netcargo UK Limited a subsidiary of the globally renowned Net Cargo Group is aimed at simplifying the export process, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative promises faster delivery times, reduced costs, and improved predictability for Nigerian exporters targeting the UK market.
Mr. Adekunle Owobamirin, General Manager of Groupage and Export Services at SIFAX Shipping, described the development as a game-changer in the company’s logistics offering.
“This is one of the most important moves we’ve made in advancing our export portfolio. We’re now positioned to offer uninterrupted export services to the UK market, giving our clients the ease and confidence they need to grow their international trade volumes,” he said.
Owobamirin explained that the direct export route will not only cut turnaround times and logistics costs but also lower risks and help Nigerian businesses meet global delivery standards with greater confidence.
In a complementary move, SIFAX also announced a strategic import partnership with WSC Logistics and Shotto Logistics Limited, targeting more efficient cargo inflows from key global markets like India and China.
Through this third-party consolidator arrangement, smaller logistics operators will now be able to utilize SIFAX’s enhanced bonded terminal and warehousing infrastructure for smoother cargo clearance and handling.
“Our bonded warehouse operations have been upgraded to accommodate a surge in import volumes,” Owobamirin said. “Trial shipments began in June, and we’re ramping up full-scale operations through July. This ensures faster clearance and dispatch with minimal delays.”
Industry experts believe the dual announcement direct exports to the UK and enhanced imports from Asia positions SIFAX as a frontrunner in transforming Nigeria’s trade logistics. The move is expected to boost trade efficiency, support economic diversification, and create new jobs across the logistics value chain.
Owobamirin noted that by expanding global trade routes and removing long standing barriers, Nigerian exporters, especially SMEs, can now thrive in the increasingly competitive global marketplace.