At 75, Prince Olayiwola Fariudeen Shittu stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics industry — a man whose quiet strength, visionary leadership, and enduring integrity continue to define a generation of customs agents and freight forwarders.
Few names command as much respect in the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) as his. To many, he is not just a former president; he is the builder of modern ANLCA — the man who gave structure, soul, and substance to an association once riddled with uncertainty.
Prince Shittu’s journey through the world of trade facilitation and logistics has been marked by resilience, reform, and reinvention. He has spent decades proving that leadership, when anchored in vision and values, can transform not only an organization but also an entire industry.
An active member of ANLCA, he rose through the ranks to become its National President, serving for an unprecedented eight years. During that period, he did not just lead; he revolutionized the very essence of what it meant to be a licensed customs agent in Nigeria.
When he assumed leadership in 2010, ANLCA was struggling with disunity, poor public perception, and outdated administrative systems. Prince Shittu inherited a house in need of rebuilding — and he did just that with a steady hand and an unshakable belief in progress.
He introduced professionalism where there was chaos, and discipline where there was disorder. Under his watch, the association’s reputation soared, and its members began to enjoy renewed pride and recognition within the maritime community.
Shittu’s leadership style was distinctly collaborative. He was a listener, a strategist, and a motivator. He understood that lasting change could only come through inclusion, and he made sure that every member’s voice was heard. His mantra — Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM) — became the heartbeat of his administration.
Beyond administrative achievements, he transformed ANLCA into an influential stakeholder in Nigeria’s trade and customs policy environment. Through regular engagement with the Nigerian Customs Service, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and other government agencies, he positioned the association as a credible voice in national economic discourse.
Under his stewardship, ANLCA acquired a befitting National Secretariat in Lagos — a move that symbolized permanence, unity, and institutional pride. For an organization that had long operated without a physical identity, this achievement was nothing short of historic.
The Secretariat, still standing tall today, remains one of the most tangible legacies of his administration — a reminder that real leadership leaves behind structures, not slogans.
Colleagues often recall how he combined firmness with empathy. He demanded accountability but offered mentorship. He insisted on high standards but ensured his team had the tools to meet them. His leadership inspired respect, not fear — and loyalty, not dependence.
Prince Shittu’s influence also transcended ANLCA. As Chief Executive Officer of SKELAS Group of Companies, he demonstrated the same vision and discipline that characterized his public life. SKELAS became a respected name in freight forwarding, shipping, and logistics — a symbol of excellence and ethical business practice.
His success in business gave him both credibility and confidence as a leader. He led by example, proving that professionalism and profitability could coexist without compromising ethics.
Born into the royal family of Igboho in Oyo State, Prince Shittu embodies the grace and calm of royalty. Yet his life has been defined less by privilege and more by perseverance. He worked his way up, mastering the intricacies of customs brokerage and earning the respect of peers and partners alike.
Despite his busy schedule, he always found time for people. To younger customs agents, he was more than a leader — he was a mentor and father figure. Many of them proudly identify as “Shittu Boys,” a badge that represents years of guidance, mentorship, and loyalty.
He is also a man of deep faith and tolerance. A devout Muslim, he is married to Stella, a devoted Christian from Delta State. Their union is a quiet but powerful symbol of harmony — a reflection of his open-mindedness and belief in unity across boundaries of religion and tribe.
At a time when Nigeria often grapples with divisions, his life offers a lesson in coexistence and mutual respect. In every way, he personifies the bridge between cultures, ideologies, and people.
As ANLCA’s president, Prince Shittu was known for his diplomacy and foresight. He navigated internal politics with grace, resolving disputes not through force but through dialogue and persuasion. His calmness under pressure became one of his defining strengths.
Many recall his regular “brain-wave sessions” — spontaneous strategy meetings where he would share new ideas, challenge old assumptions, and inspire his team to think ahead. These sessions often produced innovations that strengthened the association’s relevance.
Even in retirement, he remains intellectually active. His opinions on maritime policy are still sought after by industry players and government officials. When he speaks, people listen — not out of obligation, but out of respect for his wisdom and experience.
Over the years, he has received numerous awards and recognitions, yet he carries them lightly. To him, the real reward is seeing the association he once led continue to thrive. “Legacy,” he often says, “isn’t about statues or titles; it’s about systems that outlive you.”
This humility is one of the reasons he is loved by many. Whether among friends, employees, or mentees, he exudes a calm dignity that inspires confidence and affection.
His life story isn’t just one of success; it is a study in leadership — a testament to what vision, humility, and service can accomplish.
Beyond professional circles, Prince Shittu is deeply respected in the community. He supports philanthropic causes, helps young entrepreneurs find their footing, and quietly contributes to educational and social development initiatives.
He believes that giving back is not charity but duty — a responsibility every successful person owes to society. His philanthropy is deliberate, focused, and always aimed at empowerment rather than dependence.
At 75, Prince Shittu remains active, alert, and inspiring. His mind is as sharp as ever, his humor intact, and his heart generous. Those who visit him still find the same approachable leader, willing to share advice and offer encouragement.
His story continues to motivate younger professionals across Nigeria — a living example that leadership is about building people, not just managing positions.
As friends, colleagues, and family gather to celebrate his milestone birthday, one truth shines bright: Prince Olayiwola Shittu is not just a man of years but a man of enduring relevance.
He has lived a life that proves that excellence is achievable, integrity is sustainable, and leadership, when guided by compassion, can truly transform lives.
At seventy-five, the former ANLCA president and CEO of SKELAS Group remains a symbol of stability, wisdom, and purpose — a living testament that greatness is not about how long one leads, but how deeply one touches lives.
And so, as the maritime community celebrates this icon, it is not just a birthday they honor — it is a legacy. A legacy of service, mentorship, and vision that continues to inspire an entire generation.