Singer Damilola Afolabi, popularly known as LAX, has been appointed executive director of SIFAX Logistics by his father, chairman of SIFAX Group Taiwo Afolabi, marking the musician’s 33rd birthday with a formal entry into the family business.
The appointment was announced through the company’s official Instagram account on April 10, the same day he turned 33. The company praised his “leadership and commitment to delivering excellence” in a birthday post that confirmed his new role at the logistics subsidiary.
LAX, who holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the University of Salford, returned to Nigeria after completing his studies and launched a music career that placed him at the centre of the country’s Afrobeats scene. He was introduced to Wizkid by stylist Toyin Lawani, a connection that boosted his early career.
He was later signed to Starboy Entertainment, Wizkid’s record label, where he gained early exposure before going independent. In 2018, he founded his own label, Rasaki Music Group, under which he has released several projects and managed his career.
His debut album Rasaking, released in 2018, featured Davido, Maleek Berry, Duncan Mighty and Yemi Alade. Songs such as ‘Gbefun,’ ‘Panana,’ ‘Ginger’ and ‘Go Low’ strengthened his presence in Nigeria’s pop music space and expanded his audience beyond the country.
His transition from music to a corporate leadership role is uncommon in the Nigerian entertainment industry, but reflects a mix of his academic training and family background.
Taiwo Afolabi founded SIFAX Group and built it into a multinational with interests in shipping, logistics, aviation and hospitality. The company operates major port facilities, including Terminal C at the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos and runs the Skyway Aviation Handling Company. Its portfolio also includes the Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja and inland container terminals, with operations in Warri and Banjul, The Gambia. The group has continued to expand across West Africa with new projects in shipping and port infrastructure.
Beyond business, Taiwo is known for grooming members of his family for leadership roles within the group. His children have gradually taken up responsibilities across different arms of the company, reflecting a structured succession approach. While details of all positions are not always public, members of the Afolabi family have been involved in management, administration and corporate strategy within SIFAX and its subsidiaries.
