By Oluyinka Onigbinde
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to peacebuilding and industry development, Prince Olayiwola Shittu JP, a respected maritime leader, mediator, and business executive, has been appointed as an International Peace Advocate by the Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC).
The prestigious appointment will be formally conferred during an investiture ceremony on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, coinciding with the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.
Established in 2001 and affiliated with the United Nations and UNESCO, UN-POLAC was founded following the UN General Assembly’s declaration of 2001–2010 as the Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence. The organization aligns its work with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UNESCO’s culture of peace initiatives, emphasizing peace, security, and the restoration of human dignity.
Prince Shittu’s appointment reflects his longstanding commitment to resolving disputes and promoting unity within the maritime sector. A two-time President of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) and Chairman of SKELAS Group, he is widely recognized as a mediator in the Nigerian maritime industry. His leadership as Local Organising Committee Chairman of the Maritime Industry Merit Awards (MIMA) has further cemented his reputation as a unifying figure.
UN-POLAC trustees highlighted that the honour recognizes Shittu’s integrity, dedication to community service, and tireless efforts to foster social harmony, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation among diverse groups. His leadership and conflict-resolution initiatives have positioned him as a role model in peace advocacy and industry development.
The appointment includes a UN-POLAC Certificate of Appointment, an international identity card, investiture apparel, a flag of authority to be hoisted at a location of his choice, and a special vehicle number plate in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). As an International Peace Advocate, Shittu may participate in peace-building initiatives, mediation efforts, and programmes promoting positive living in line with global best practices.
The annual investiture ceremony recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to peace, leadership, and community development. This year’s event in Lagos is expected to attract key stakeholders from the maritime industry and beyond.
In a congratulatory letter, UN-POLAC Director-General Prof. Halo B. Eton described the appointment as a “well-deserved honour” for Shittu’s enduring contributions to peace and distinguished leadership in the Nigerian maritime sector.
Reacting to the appointment, Prince Shittu expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his dedication to promoting harmony and unity:
“I sincerely appreciate UN-POLAC for this distinguished honour. I accept this appointment with humility and a strong sense of responsibility to advance peace, unity, and constructive dialogue within the maritime sector and the wider society. I remain committed to promoting mutual respect, sustainable development, and initiatives that foster cooperation, stability, and collective progress for our nation and the global community.”
