L.A.X’s traditional wedding has been in the spotlight since it was held on Sunday, November 1. It was attended by many influential personalities, from former President Jonathan to the Emir of Kano. This has made headlines, but many people are now asking about his father.
Here are 10 key things to know about L.A.X’s father, Dr Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi.
1. Taiwo Afolabi is the founder of SIFAX Group
After working with Nigerian Express Agencies Limited, Taiwo Afolabi started SIFAX in 1988 as a small freight-forwarding company. Today, it is one of Nigeria’s major indigenous conglomerates. 
2. He owns a major port terminal
Through Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, SIFAX operates Terminal C at Tin Can Island Port in Lagos. The port is one of the important terminals in Nigeria’s busiest port complex.
3. Dr Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi controls a major aviation company
He is the major shareholder of Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), a leading ground-handling company listed on the Nigerian Exchange. SAHCO provides services to several local and international airlines.
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4. He owns the Lagos Marriott Hotel
Through Mac-Folly Hospitality, the Afolabi family owns the Lagos Marriott Hotel in Ikeja. Lagos Marriott Hotel is one of the notable international hotel brands in the city. It is a five star rated hospitality place.
5. He holds national honours
Taiwo Afolabi has received two national honours. In July 2010, he was conferred Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) for his contributions to the economy and national development. In 2023, he was listed among the recipients of the Special National Honours Awards 2023 under the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) category.
6. L.A.X’s father is a diplomat
He was officially appointed as the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Djibouti in Nigeria. The appointment was made by Djibouti’s President, Ismail Omar Guelleh, in July 2010. He has also served as Regional Chairman of Honorary Consuls for West Africa under the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC).
7. He has strong elite and traditional connections
As a member of exclusive clubs such as the Ikoyi Club 1938 and the IBB Golf Club in Abuja. Being a member of both clubs shows high-level acceptance in Nigeria’s elite social and power networks. He has one foot in Lagos’ commercial establishment and the other in Abuja’s political and military circles. Hence, his events regularly attract traditional rulers, politicians, and top business figures.
8. L.A.X’s father has relationships across political eras
In 2014, SIFAX Group donated N100 million to then-President Goodluck Jonathan’s reelection campaign, and figures from different political backgrounds have continued to associate with the family.
9. He is deliberately preparing the next generation
Like many business moguls, his children are being integrated into the family business. L.A.X was appointed Executive Director of SIFAX Logistics in 2026, while other siblings also hold executive positions.
10. He keeps a relatively low public profile
Despite his wealth and influence, Taiwo Afolabi is not a media-loving billionaire. He rarely seeks the spotlight, preferring to operate quietly through business and institutional relationships.
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