ANLCA throws grand reception in honour of maritime icon, Prince Olayiwola Shittu

On Friday, October 31st, the National Secretariat of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) shed its routine look and transformed into a spectacular venue for celebration as the association hosted a grand reception in honour of its former President, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, who recently celebrated his 75th birthday.

The event led by ANLCA Vice President Prince Segun Oduntan, BoT Chairman Taiwo Mustapha, and other prominent ANLCA leaders, drew the entire membership of ANLCA – women, youth and elders to celebrate the life of a man whose decades of service not only transformed ANLCA but left an indelible mark in the nation’s maritime sector.

The celebrant, Prince Shittu, radiated happiness, fulfillment and beamed with appreciative smiles throughout the heartfelt gathering tagged ‘Happy Hour’.

Also present were former acting National President, Dr. Collins Farinto, former Sole Administrator, Alhaji Azeez Mukaila, and other stalwarts like Sir John Ofobike and Pius Ojubunu, Chapter chairmen including Emeka Chukwumalu, Tope Akindele and Hajia Bola Muse, and numerous others who added their voices to the chorus of praise.

The gathering was not merely a party, it was a living tribute to a man whose significant positive impact, leadership, sagacity, integrity, and unwavering principles have shaped the very soul of ANLCA.

Anchored by the ANLCA National Publicity Secretary, Emmanuel Onyema, the evening unfolded with a stream of encomiums that painted a portrait of Prince Shittu not just as a leader, but as a symbol of enduring excellence. Beginning with Mustapha, Oduntan, and Emeka, each tribute was a brushstroke in the masterpiece of his legacy.

Seated beside his elegant wife, Prince Shittu absorbed the love and solidarity with quiet grace. His words, simple yet profound, echoed through the hall: “I feel greatly honoured and affected that many years after leaving office, members and the industry continue to identify with me.”

Prince Olayiwola Shittu is not merely a former president—he is the heartbeat of ANLCA’s transformation. His tenure was marked by visionary leadership, fierce advocacy, and a commitment to ethical standards that elevated the profession. He is a man of uncommon principles, whose influence continues to ripple through the corridors of power and practice in the maritime sector.

Every speaker at the event repeated what has become part of ANLCA anthem, that without Prince Shittu, ANLCA’s story would be incomplete. His legacy is not just in policies or reforms, but in the hearts of those who walked with him, learned from him, and continue to carry his torch.

Yesterday’s Happy Hour was more than a celebration—it was a reaffirmation. It is a reminder that true leadership transcends titles and tenure. That honour, when earned through service and sacrifice, becomes immortal.

Prince Shittu is not just loved, he is cherished. And in the story of ANLCA, his name will forever resonate as a beacon of what it means to lead with heart, courage, and unwavering conviction.