Nigeria’s Independence: Bunu Marks Celebrates Nted, Adeyanju, Makes Fresh Call for Unity and Hope

Bunu, in his Independence Day message, said Nigerians deserve recognition for their courage, hard work and enduring faith despite the economic pressures, insecurity and other challenges confronting the nation.

He acknowledged that life has become increasingly difficult for many citizens, but noted that Nigerians have continued to demonstrate remarkable resilience and a strong belief that no hardship is permanent or insurmountable.

According to him, the strength of Nigeria lies not only in its natural resources or institutions, but also in the determination of its people to keep moving forward even in difficult times.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since independence in October 1960, the MWUN leader paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and past leaders whose sacrifices, he said, helped preserve the unity of the nation.

He urged Nigerians to remember those sacrifices and continue to protect the values that bind the country together, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity of cultures, religions, tribes and traditions should remain a source of strength rather than division.

Bunu also encouraged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to continue praying and working for the progress and unity of the country.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the country is passing through stages of development that could ultimately lead to a better Nigeria and improved conditions for its citizens.

The MWUN President-General said he remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at building a transformative Nigeria, while urging citizens not to lose faith in the country despite the difficulties of the moment.

The Independence celebration also provided an opportunity for Bunu to celebrate two former leaders of the Maritime Workers’ Union whose birthdays fall on October 1 — former MWUN President-General Comrade Tony Emmanuel Nted and former President-General and current Chairman of the Union’s Board of Trustees, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju.

In his message to Nted, Bunu described the former President-General as a leader whose love for the Union and its members remained central to his administration.

He recalled Nted’s contribution to the growth of the Union and particularly his role in ensuring a smooth transition of leadership after completing his eight-year tenure.

Bunu said Nted handed over the leadership of MWUN to Adeyanju, whom he described as an accomplished administrator and a strong field leader capable of taking the Union forward.

The current President-General said working under both Nted and Adeyanju had significantly influenced his own leadership journey.

He recalled beginning to apply the leadership lessons he gained from them while serving as District Chairman in Onne, Port Harcourt, and later as President of the Seafarers Branch of the Union.

According to Bunu, the experience helped prepare him for the responsibility of leading MWUN, adding that he considers the opportunity to learn from both leaders one of the most valuable aspects of his journey within the Union.

He described Nted as a compassionate and God-fearing leader whose commitment to humanity and members of the Union remains remarkable.

Bunu also recalled Nted’s role in supporting the implementation of rotational leadership among the Union’s four branches, a system under which the Seafarers Branch became the first beneficiary.

He said Nted’s leadership foresight had left a lasting impact on the Union and would continue to be remembered by members and future generations.

Similarly, Bunu paid tribute to Adeyanju, describing him as an experienced labour leader, administrator and maritime professional whose contribution to the Union continues to influence its present leadership.

He acknowledged Adeyanju’s wealth of knowledge in labour administration and industrial relations, noting that the former President-General played an important role in shaping his own understanding of Union leadership.

Bunu said Adeyanju handed over not only a Union with institutional experience but also a team of capable administrators who have continued to contribute to the effective running of its affairs.

He expressed appreciation for the legacy left behind by his predecessor, stressing that his administration remains determined to build on the foundation laid before it and keep the Union united and progressive.

The MWUN President-General also acknowledged Adeyanju’s continued relevance beyond his tenure as President-General, particularly in his present roles as Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and President of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF).

For Bunu, the coincidence of both birthdays with Nigeria’s Independence Day carries a special significance — linking personal milestones with the broader story of service, sacrifice, leadership and freedom.

He therefore wished Nted and Adeyanju good health, prosperity and many more years of impactful service, while celebrating the two former leaders for the roles they have played in the development of MWUN.

As Nigerians celebrate the nation’s independence, Bunu’s message combines a call for patience and national commitment with recognition of the people and leaders whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s journey.

He urged citizens to keep faith with the country, remain committed to its unity and continue to believe that Nigeria can reclaim a stronger position within the comity of nations.

For the MWUN leader, the task of building a better Nigeria remains a shared responsibility — one that requires resilience from citizens, responsible leadership and an enduring commitment to keeping the nation united.