The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has celebrated one of Nigeria’s most influential maritime figures, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, on the occasion of his 75th birthday.
In a congratulatory message issued on Wednesday in Lagos, MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, described Prince Shittu as a visionary leader and reformer whose contributions to the maritime sector remain indelible.
Bivbere said Prince Shittu’s name has become a symbol of integrity, discipline, and innovation, noting that his leadership style continues to inspire stakeholders within and beyond the maritime community.
He described the former President of the Association of Nigerian Customs Licensed Agents (ANLCA) as “a colossus who bestrides the maritime industry like an octopus,” adding that his dedication to service set him apart as one of the most respected industry voices.
According to Bivbere, Prince Shittu’s eight-year tenure as ANLCA President marked a period of transformation, during which he restored unity, dignity, and relevance to the association.
He explained that under Shittu’s leadership, ANLCA evolved from a fragmented organisation into a formidable platform that championed the interests of customs brokers and freight forwarders nationwide.
Bivbere noted that Prince Shittu introduced reforms that strengthened compliance, professional ethics, and operational efficiency within the freight forwarding industry, thereby improving its image and credibility.
He added that Shittu’s insistence on transparency and accountability became the benchmark for responsible leadership in the maritime sector, guiding many practitioners who looked up to him for mentorship.
Beyond his ANLCA stewardship, the MARAN President said Prince Shittu has been a consistent advocate for trade reforms, pushing for policies that enhance port efficiency, streamline operations, and facilitate seamless cargo movement.
He said Shittu’s boldness in defending the interests of maritime operators and his ability to speak truth to power earned him admiration from both peers and government agencies.
MARAN also commended Prince Shittu’s mentorship role, acknowledging that several accomplished customs brokers and freight forwarders today owe their professional development to his guidance and encouragement.
The association further praised his entrepreneurial accomplishments as Chief Executive Officer of Skelas Group of Companies, a diversified conglomerate that has contributed to job creation and national economic growth.
According to MARAN, Prince Shittu’s rise from a young customs agent to a respected industry icon exemplifies perseverance, integrity, and the belief that success is built on service and credibility.
“As he clocks 75, we celebrate a man whose leadership was defined by fairness, courage, and the vision to unite professionals under a common goal of progress,” Bivbere said, adding that Shittu has remained a dependable ally of the maritime media.
The association prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and strength for Prince Olayiwola Shittu, describing him as a beacon of excellence whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the maritime industry.
