SIFAX Group commences ferry service on Ebute Ojo–Mile 2-Apapa route

Tayo Oladipupo I

In confirmation of nigeriamaritime360.com report, the Corporate Affairs Manager of SIFAX group, Muyiwa Akande in a statement, affirmed that the group has commenced operations ferry service at the jetty.

The Group with interests in Maritime, Aviation, Haulage & Logistics, Oil & Gas and Hospitality recently concessioned the Ebute Ojo Jetty, in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State.

According to the statement, two 30-passenger capacity ultra-modern boats have been deployed for the operations.

It added that the ferry service will operate on Ebute Ojo-Apapa(Liverpool) and Mile 2 (Capital Oil Jetty)- Apapa routes from 7am to 7pm every week day while charter services are also available everyday for private individuals and fun seekers who want to explore the Lagos water fronts.

Akande quoted Captain Olugbade Ibrahim, Managing Consultant to SIFAX Ferry Terminal, Ojo that the desire to increase transport options for commuters and to support the efforts of the Lagos State government to develop the state’s water transportation sector, accounted for the new venture.

He said: “We are conscious of adding value and bringing new innovations to the waterway business. Our business goals and objectives are well aligned with that of the Lagos State Government in the massive development of the waterways.

“This has prompted us to acquire these two ferries, which we are starting with, as we have plans to increase the number soon. The ferries we use are the same with what is obtainable in advanced countries. It is safe, fast, convenient, spacious, durable and manned by experts with tested experience. Our onboard safety procedure is excellent.”

Speaking further, Olugbade noted that the ferry service alongside other facilities at the terminal would provide passengers with excellent customer service experience, which is the hallmark of the SIFAX Group brand.

“The two boats that service the Ebute-Ojo ferry terminal to Apapa and Mile 2 have 500 horse power engines each. As a company that is safety conscious, we have acquired the best brand of life jackets too. Inflight entertainment is also guaranteed for our customers that come on board.

We have excellent customer service personnel to also attend to customer’s complaints and suggestions too. In no time, we will add more ferries and open up more routes across Lagos waterways. We also want to make the service first class. The terminal building itself will be equipped with wi-fi, eateries and also banks,” he said.

While corroborating Olugbade’s position, Mr. John Jenkins, Group Managing Director, SIFAX Group, said the company’s massive investment in the water transportation is part of the overall strategic plan of SIFAX Group to deepen its commitment in the country’s transport sector, thereby, providing more jobs, solving a social problem, supporting government’s initiative and helping grow the country’s economy.”

Some of the commuters interviewed gave kudos to SIFAX Group for the initiative and urged the company to increase its fleet without delay in order to take care of the expected surge in traffic.