Maria Ninette Nwaro

Mrs. Maria Ninette Nwaro, neé Ashley, was born on February 29, 1936, in the vibrant city of Warri, Nigeria, to Robert Kenneth Ashley and Comfort Ojukwu. Her life, a rich mosaic of experiences, was deeply rooted in her heritage and broadened by her worldwide travels.

Her educational odyssey commenced at Warri Convent School at the age of two and a half. By nine, she was studying at Marist Brothers school in Uturu, Abia State, setting the stage for her lifelong commitment to nursing, which she pursued at Ihiala Convent Nursing School.

In 1956, Maria wed Prince Obilali Nwaro, with whom she shared six children, a daughter Adaugo and five sons, Ikechukwu, Chukwuka, Uchechukwu, Nnamdi, and Obialo. As a mother, she instilled values of respect, diligence, and integrity in her children.

Maria's entrepreneurial drive soon led her to establish the Wayside Maternity Home in Kano, Nigeria, showcasing her preference for healthcare entrepreneurship. Her work continued through the Nigeria/Biafra war in 1966, where she collaborated with the Caritas Foundation in Uturu to offer critical medical care. Post-war, in 1970, she reopened the Wayside Maternity Home in Kano and later managed clinics in Okigwe and Achara, emphasizing patient care and education for nurses and midwives.

Maria was the cherished sister of the late Victoria Danjuma-Onoh and Hauwa Eva Graham, her bond with them reflecting deep camaraderie and support through life’s challenges.

Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and strength, embodying perseverance, the significance of family, and the spirit of a dignified life. Her later years were spent between Nigeria, the United States, and London, enjoying time with her family. She returned to Nigeria in 2021, wishing to spend her final days surrounded by loved ones.

Maria passed away on September 8, 2023, leaving behind a legacy cherished by her six children, their spouses, twenty-three grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, her sister Hauwa Eva Graham, and numerous relatives. Her life, marked by kindness, dedication, and love, continues to inspire and guide those who knew her. Maria Ninette Nwaro's memory will be forever treasured, and her impact felt deeply. May she rest in eternal peace, enveloped in divine love.