The opening ceremony of the 2024 Ships & Ports Maritime Cup was not only a celebration of sporting spirit but also a heartfelt tribute to one of the Nigerian maritime industry’s most respected figures, Prince Olayiwola Shittu.
The former National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) was honoured during the ceremony, which coincided with his 74th birthday, making the event an especially memorable one.
Held at the Stable Sports Complex in Surulere, Lagos, the ceremony saw Shittu in high spirits, surrounded by industry leaders, dignitaries, and teams participating in this year’s tournament. Among the attendees were Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), represented by Mr. Oladipo Fatai; Barrister Pius Akuta, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, represented by Mrs. Adaku Okam; and Dr. Bolaji Akinola, CEO of Ships & Ports Communication Company.
In a moving moment during the ceremony, Shittu was invited to the stage to cut a birthday cake, marking his 74th year in a celebration filled with warmth and nostalgia.
The cake-cutting was a unique experience for Shittu, who shared that this was the first time he had ever cut a birthday cake for himself.
“I don’t know where to start from. For the first time, I am short of words. I want to thank Bolaji, the CEO of Ships & Ports. We’ve been friends and brothers for decades. He is a unique personality that I have tremendous respect and admiration for,” Prince Shittu said.
The septuagenarian also reflected on his long-standing career in the maritime industry and the evolution of the Maritime Cup, which he praised as a platform that brings the community together in a unique way.
Having led ANLCA to victory in the 2015 tournament, he reminisced about that memorable win and the camaraderie that the event fosters.
“This tournament has grown tremendously, not just in size but in the impact it has had on our industry. It’s a joy to see the industry come together year after year, and I am grateful to celebrate my birthday here, surrounded by colleagues and friends,” he said.
The CEO of Ships & Ports, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, in his remarks, praised Shittu for his dedication and influence within the maritime sector, describing him as an inspiration to many.
“Prince Shittu has given so much to this industry. His contributions have helped shape the freight forwarding sector, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday, but also his enduring commitment to the growth and unity of the Nigerian maritime industry,” Akinola stated.
Many of those present expressed their admiration, highlighting his role as a mentor and a driving force for positive change.
Prince Shittu also performed the ceremonial kickoff of the 2024 Maritime Cup Competition, which this year includes 12 teams from across the maritime sector.
Attendees and participants alike shared in the joyous spirit of the event, embodying the unity and collaboration that the tournament represents.
“As the 2024 Ships & Ports Maritime Cup unfolds, Prince Olayiwola Shittu’s presence and recognition serve as an inspiration, reminding the industry of the importance of camaraderie, teamwork, and the lasting impact of leadership grounded in respect and service. The tournament will continue to promote a spirit of togetherness that strengthens the bonds within Nigeria’s maritime sector,” Akinola said.