In a significant turn of events, the two immediate past factional chairmen of the Tin Can Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Mojeed Akanni and Mr Ojo Akintoye, have declared their resolve to end years of division within the association.
The announcement was made during an event held in Lagos on Friday, where both leaders expressed their unified support for Prince Olawale Cole, an aspirant contesting for the chairmanship of the chapter, signaling a new era of unity and progress for ANLCA’s Tin Can Chapter.
Prince Olawale Cole, in his address, outlined his vision to transform the Tin Can Chapter into a hub of innovation, efficiency, and inclusiveness.
He stated that his aspiration was rooted in the desire to build a united, efficient, and forward-looking chapter where every member thrives and where integrity and innovation drive engagements.
Cole presented a comprehensive action plan focused on growth and competitiveness, stability and security, advocacy and inclusive representation, and healthcare outreach.
Cole pledged to modernize the association’s secretariat to international standards, implement digital systems for streamlined operations, and collaborate with Lagos State initiatives to create jobs and enhance skillsets for members.
He emphasized the importance of enhancing security measures and working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service to simplify procedures, reduce delays, and minimize operational costs for members.
He further promised to champion policies that benefit all stakeholders and foster mutual respect among customs brokers. On healthcare, Cole committed to providing free periodic health checks for members, describing health as a fundamental right.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Mojeed Akanni a factional chairman of the Tin Can Port, described Cole’s candidacy as a new dawn for the Tin Can Chapter.
He expressed optimism about the chapter’s future and praised the aspirant’s vision and leadership qualities.
“Today, we welcome a new thing; a new candidate and a new dawn. I pray for your success and urge you to lead inclusively. This is not about a winner-takes-all approach but about building a united chapter,” he said.
On his part, Mr Ojo Akintoye, another factional chairman and Vice President of the Oodua Maritime Forum, highlighted the need for reconciliation and unity within the chapter.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by years of internal conflict and called on members to support Cole’s vision for progress.
“For over 15 years, we’ve witnessed factions and conflicts that have held us back. Now, we must unite and ensure our members no longer suffer. I am pleading with everyone to participate in the election and support Prince Wale Cole,” he said.
Also speaking, Prince Taiye Oyeniyi, a patron of ANLCA, also endorsed Cole’s candidacy, reflecting on the chapter’s importance and the need for collaborative leadership.
“Tin Can is our home, and we must protect it. As someone who has been in this position before, I am confident that Wale Cole will bring the change we need
