Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group, said it has recorded a milestone with the arrival of IPSARION, which is the largest general cargo vessel ever handled at its terminal at the Tincan Island Port, Lagos.
This was contained in a statement released by the Group Head, Corporate Communications at SIFAX Group, Olumuyiwa Akande, on Sunday.
Akande explained that IPSARION, a Malta-flagged bulk carrier with a length of 199.99 meters and a gross tonnage of 36,560, arrived laden with bulk cargo and industrial equipment from Europe.
“Built by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries in Cebu, Philippines, the vessel is managed by Helikon Shipping Enterprises Ltd and operated by YAKE BULK LIMITED. Onboard the vessel were multiple units of construction equipment, steel rods, vehicles, chemicals, power generation machinery, and several other goods,” Akande said.
The Managing Director, Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, Mr. John Jenkins described the vessel’s arrival as a strategic step aimed at maximising opportunities and resources at the terminal, facilitating trade, and growing the country’s economy.
“For a long period, our terminal has been servicing primarily container vessels, but a strategic business decision recently that focuses on opening up the space for more diverse business partnerships has tilted us towards welcoming general cargo vessels at our terminal,” Jenkins said.
He explained that the general cargo business is not entirely new to the terminal, “as we have handled this at some point in time.”
Jenkins added that the terminal has the required expertise, equipment, and other resources to adequately meet and exceed the expectations of general cargo vessels calling at the terminal.
“We are excited that IPSARION has called at our terminal, and unloading operations are currently going on. Handling a vessel of this large-scale showcases our preparedness for large-volume cargo operations. It validates the massive investment SIFAX Group has made in port infrastructure and human capacity over the years,” he stressed.
The MD maintained that the feat further reinforces the SIFAX Group’s role in driving excellence in Nigeria’s maritime industry and contributing to national economic growth through seamless port operations.