Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has attributed its operational rebound in 2025 to a deliberate strategic decision to refocus its business on general cargo and break-bulk handling.
The improved performance followed a major repositioning of the terminal after a challenging 2024, during which the company lost some high-profile clients, resulting in reduced cargo volumes and weaker earnings. In response, management redirected operations toward general cargo and break-bulk services, a move that stabilised the business and unlocked a new growth trajectory.
Speaking on the turnaround, the Managing Director, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, Mr. John Jenkins, said the restructuring of the company’s stevedoring operations was central to the recovery.
“Our strategic operational reforms played a critical role in the rebound. The company restructured its stevedoring operations, resulting in a significant reduction in operating costs and measurable improvements in productivity following a change in service provider,” Jenkins said.
He added that the company also made targeted investments to strengthen operational capacity. “We invested in critical equipment such as forklifts and spare parts, while rebalancing our workforce. This included filling key operational roles with competent hands to strengthen service delivery and support higher volumes,” he noted.
Looking ahead, the company has projected significant revenue growth, with general cargo expected to account for the largest share of earnings. This growth is being driven by increased volumes of steel, vehicles, and palletised cargo, as well as higher import flows from Asia into Nigeria.
To sustain momentum and manage anticipated growth in business volumes, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited has outlined a 2026 capital expenditure plan that includes crane upgrades, the acquisition of additional forklifts, and the procurement of terminal trucks. According to the company, these investments will ease capacity constraints, reduce equipment hire costs, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges such as space limitations and volatility in container shipping services, management expressed confidence in the company’s outlook for the coming year.
“The lessons learned in 2025 have strengthened our approach to cost control, customer engagement, and operational execution. With demand no longer our primary constraint, our focus in 2026 is on efficient execution—handling higher cargo volumes while protecting margins and sustaining profitability,” Jenkins said.
