By Sandra Chukwunyere
A prominent maritime stakeholder and former President of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olayiwola Shittu, has been named an International Peace Advocate by the Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding and leadership within the maritime sector.
The honour will be formally bestowed on Shittu during a special investiture ceremony scheduled for April 29, 2026, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel. The ceremony coincides with the global observance of the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.
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UN-POLAC, an organisation established in 2001 and affiliated with the United Nations and UNESCO, focuses on promoting a culture of peace, security, and human dignity. The organisation was founded following the United Nations General Assembly’s declaration of 2001–2010 as the Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence.
The group’s programmes align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UNESCO’s initiatives aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence and social harmony across communities.
Shittu’s selection as an International Peace Advocate reflects his longstanding reputation as a mediator and bridge-builder in the maritime industry. During his tenure as a two-time President of ANLCA and as Chairman of SKELAS Group, he gained recognition for fostering dialogue and resolving disputes among stakeholders within the sector.
He also serves as Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the Maritime Industry Merit Awards (MIMA), a role through which he has further contributed to strengthening unity and collaboration within the industry.
According to the trustees of UN-POLAC, the appointment acknowledges Shittu’s integrity, commitment to community service and consistent efforts toward promoting peaceful coexistence and cooperation among diverse groups.
The organisation noted that his leadership style and dedication to conflict resolution have made him a respected figure and role model in both peace advocacy and maritime industry development.
As part of the recognition, Shittu will receive a UN-POLAC Certificate of Appointment, an international identity card, investiture apparel and a flag of authority that may be hoisted at a location of his choice. The honour also includes a special vehicle number plate to be issued in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
In his new capacity as an International Peace Advocate, Shittu may be invited to participate in mediation initiatives, peacebuilding engagements and programmes designed to promote positive living in line with international standards.
The annual UN-POLAC investiture ceremony recognises individuals who have demonstrated notable commitment to peace promotion, leadership and community development. The 2026 ceremony in Lagos is expected to attract leading figures from the maritime industry and other sectors.
In a nomination letter signed by the Director-General of UN-POLAC, Prof. Halo B. Eton, the organisation congratulated Shittu on the honour, describing it as a recognition of his enduring contributions to peace and his distinguished leadership within the maritime sector.
Responding to the announcement, Shittu expressed appreciation for the recognition and pledged to continue promoting unity and dialogue.
“I sincerely appreciate the Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) for this distinguished honour,” he said.
“I accept the appointment with humility and a strong sense of responsibility to further promote peace, unity and constructive engagement within the maritime sector and society at large. I remain committed to fostering harmony, mutual respect and sustainable development while supporting initiatives that advance cooperation and stability in our nation and beyond.”
