Dr Bolaji Akinola
Dr Bolaji Akinola, spokesman to His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, has felicitated with maritime industry stalwart Prince Olayiwola Shittu, on the occasion of his 75th birthday today.
Prince Shittu was a former National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA).
Dr Akinola, in a statement issued from Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), described Prince Shittu as “a consummate professional, a visionary leader, and one of the finest ambassadors of Nigeria’s maritime industry whose decades of service have left an indelible mark on the sector.”
He noted that Prince Shittu’s contributions to trade facilitation, customs brokerage reform, and professional development within the maritime space have helped to strengthen Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness and improve operational integrity at the nation’s ports.
“Prince Shittu’s leadership style, anchored on integrity, discipline, and inclusiveness, transformed the ANLCA into a more vibrant, credible, and reform-minded association,” Akinola said. “He was instrumental in fostering collaboration between government agencies and private sector operators, advancing the causes of transparency, professionalism, and national economic growth.”
Prince Olayiwola Shittu
Akinola further commended the celebrant’s lifelong dedication to capacity building and mentorship, noting that many of today’s maritime professionals and customs brokers trace their success to Prince Shittu’s guidance and encouragement.
“His belief in knowledge-sharing and industry excellence continues to inspire a new generation of maritime practitioners,” he added.
Prince Olayiwola Shittu, a respected elder statesman in the maritime community, is widely acknowledged for his reformist vision and contributions to modernising customs operations in Nigeria.
During his tenure as ANLCA President, he championed digitalisation and the professional certification of customs brokers, helping to elevate industry standards and improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business.
Beyond his professional achievements, Prince Shittu is celebrated for his philanthropy, humility, and community service. He has supported numerous youth empowerment initiatives and educational programmes, underscoring his belief that human capital development remains the anchor of sustainable growth.
As the maritime community joins in celebrating his 75th birthday, Dr Akinola prayed for Prince Shittu’s continued good health, wisdom, and happiness, noting that his legacy will remain a guiding light for stakeholders working to advance the goals of Nigeria’s emerging Blue Economy.
“Prince Shittu’s story is one of vision, hard work, and service,” Akinola said. “He stands as a beacon of excellence in Nigeria’s maritime history, and his influence will continue to shape the sector for generations to come.”
