Honoring the Legacy of Bro. Ayo Ohiwereh: A Visionary Advocate for Maritime Workers

Honoring the Legacy of Bro. Ayo Ohiwereh: A Visionary Advocate for Maritime Workers 

President General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria MWUN,Dr.Adewale Adeyanju fnli

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) finds itself immersed in a somber atmosphere as it mourns the sudden passing of Brother Ayo Ohiwereh, an influential dockworker and consultant for the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF). Under the steadfast leadership of COM. (Prince) Dr. Adeyanju Adewale, MWUN acknowledges the profound impact of Bro. Ayo’s work and his untimely departure in the early hours of Friday, February 21st, 2025.

Bro. Ayo, known for his unwavering dedication, was in Nigeria at the time of his passing, having returned from his base in London, United Kingdom. He was there to fulfill his usual duties for the ITF as the Maritime Officer for Africa, focusing particularly on the Maritime Affiliate Scheme (MAS) project in Nigeria. His efforts were instrumental in enhancing the collective bargaining agreement to meet international standards, thereby strengthening the West Africa transport hub and promoting the welfare of dockworkers and seafarers across the continent.

Hailing from the Etsako Local Government Area of Edo State, Bro. Ayo was a formidable presence in the maritime sector. His extensive knowledge and achievements in the industry were celebrated, and he was recognized as a visionary and dedicated change-maker. His work transcended borders as he traveled across the seven continents, tirelessly advocating for better welfare for transport workers globally.

Bro. Ayo’s contributions to the transport sector in Nigeria were nothing short of phenomenal. He left an indelible mark, becoming a trailblazer whose legacy will be remembered for years to come. Known for his impeccable command of “Queen’s” English, he captivated audiences and garnered a significant following, earning the affectionate nickname of a “Whiteman” in “black skin” from his colleagues at MWUN.

As the MWUN and the broader maritime community come to terms with this great loss, they remember Bro. Ayo as a notable personality, fondly remembered by all. His remarkable work and the lasting impact he made on the lives of many will continue to inspire future generations in the maritime sector.

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria stands united in grief, honoring the memory of Bro. Ayo Ohiwereh, a dedicated advocate for transport workers, and a cherished member of their community.

MWUN will sorely miss his milk of kindness and his eternal love of humanity. His death is a great loss to humanity and has certainly created a vacuum which will be hard to fill. Our “brother” has contributed his utmost and gone to rest with the Lord. May his revered soul rest in peace.