Prince Olayiwola Shittu: Celebrating the Iroko at 75 

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

Today, we rise in celebration of a man whose life has been a beacon of leadership, compassion, and excellence—Prince Olayiwola Shittu, the Iroko of Nigeria’s maritime industry, as he marks his 75th birthday.

A towering figure in freight forwarding and customs brokerage, Prince Shittu’s legacy is etched in the sands of time, and his influence continues to ripple across generations.

Prince Olayiwola Shittu’s journey is one of vision, resilience, and transformation. From his early days as a civil servant in the Nigerian Ports Authority to his historic tenure as the longest-serving National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), he has redefined what it means to lead with integrity.

Under his stewardship, ANLCA evolved from a fragmented body into a professional, respected, and entrepreneurial force. His leadership brought stability, unity, and credibility to the freight forwarding sector, earning him the revered title of President Emeritus.

Prince Shittu is not just a leader—he is a symbol of grace and strength. Like the eagle perched atop the iroko tree, he has soared above challenges, leaving indelible footprints in the maritime landscape. His pioneering role as the Publicity Secretary of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) further cemented his status as a trailblazer.

Even amidst storms within ANLCA, Prince Shittu remained unshaken, embodying the spirit of a “retired unconquering lion”—a man whose integrity and wisdom continue to guide the industry.

Beyond boardrooms and policy reforms, Prince Shittu is a philanthropist, mentor, and servant leader. His generosity knows no bounds—supporting the fatherless, uplifting the less privileged, and nurturing the maritime media community. His kindness transcends tribal and religious lines, making him a true Nigerian patriot.

A devout Muslim with a liberal cleavage, Prince Shittu is a loving husband, and a proud father to children who are building impactful futures. His home is a sanctuary of love, and his life a testament to divine grace.

As we mark his 75th birthday, every October 15th is etched in our consciousness —  a day to honour a man who has given so much to Nigeria, to humanity, and to the freight forwarding profession.

In recognition that Prince Shittu’s life is a melody of gratitude, l like to close this tribute with the evergreen song of worship in Yoruba language, below:

Ara edide eba mi jo

Eniyan mi ebami yo

Oluwa mi lo gbemiga

Ninu ewu gbogbo opa mimo

Ninu ewu gbogbo omu mi ye

Kilo tu yemi bi ko se ope

Ope ni temi lojo gbo gbo

We join his family, friends, and admirers in praying for many more years of good health, prosperity, and peace. May his legacy continue to inspire, and may his blessings multiply in hues and colors beyond human comprehension.

Happy 75th Birthday, Prince Olayiwola Shittu—the Eagle on the Iroko Tree: the Prince of Integrity.