By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Tin Can Island Chapter, Prince Wale Cole, has been honoured with the prestigious ANLCA Icon Award for his contributions to the growth and development of the association.
Cole received the award at the 72nd anniversary celebration of ANLCA held in Lagos, where he was also honoured with the traditional title of *Olu Omo of ANLCA*, in recognition of his standing and contributions within the association.
The twin recognition placed Cole among personalities celebrated during the anniversary for their contributions to the development of ANLCA and the customs brokerage profession.
Speaking shortly after receiving the Icon Award, Cole described the recognition as a humbling moment and an indication that the efforts of members who have dedicated themselves to the growth of the association are being noticed and appreciated.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership of ANLCA, the National Executive Committee (NECOM), the organisers of the anniversary and members of the association for considering him worthy of the honour.
Cole said the award would further strengthen his resolve to contribute to the development of ANLCA and support initiatives capable of improving the welfare, professionalism and standing of licensed customs agents in Nigeria.
He said the honour was not only a personal recognition but also a responsibility, adding that those entrusted with leadership positions within the association must continue to work towards building a stronger and more united professional body.
According to him, ANLCA has played a significant role in Nigeria’s maritime and international trade sector over the past 72 years, noting that the association’s long history imposes a responsibility on present members to protect its legacy while preparing it for the challenges of the future.
He said the customs brokerage profession was undergoing significant changes as a result of technological advancement, customs reforms and the increasing demand for faster and more transparent cargo clearance processes.
Cole therefore stressed the need for members of ANLCA to embrace professionalism, knowledge and technology in order to remain relevant in the evolving trade and port environment.
He also dedicated the recognition to colleagues and members of the Tin Can Island Chapter, acknowledging their support and cooperation in his activities within the association.
The ANLCA chairman said the honour would encourage him to continue advocating for issues affecting licensed customs agents and contributing to constructive engagement between the association, government agencies and other stakeholders in the maritime industry.
He further expressed gratitude for being named *Olu Omo of ANLCA*, describing the title as a special recognition that comes with responsibility to continue promoting unity, fraternity and the collective interests of members.
Cole called on members of ANLCA to continue supporting the leadership of the association and work together to strengthen the organisation as it enters another phase of its 72-year history.
The 72nd anniversary celebration brought together customs agents, maritime industry stakeholders, government representatives and members of the association to commemorate ANLCA’s seven decades of existence and reflect on its role in Nigeria’s trade and port development.
The recognition of Cole formed part of the honours presented during the anniversary, highlighting the association’s tradition of acknowledging members and stakeholders who have contributed to its growth and development.
