Chinedum Treasure
Member representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Prof Lilian Orogbu has empowered over 500 constituents with vehicles, business equipment, vocational tools and educational support aimed at poverty reduction, wealth creation and self-reliance.
The second phase of the empowerment programme, themed “Empowering Communities, Building Futures,” was held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, in Awka, attracting a large gathering of beneficiaries, political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, religious leaders and party faithful from across the constituency.
The beneficiaries from various communities across the constituency received cars, shuttle buses, tricycles (Keke), motorcycles, sewing machines, grinding machines, deep freezers, 2KVA and 1KVA generating sets, among other empowerment items.
Scholarships were also awarded to deserving students as part of the lawmaker’s commitment to expanding access to education.
Speaking during the event, Orogbu explained that the empowerment programme was her way of appreciating thousands of supporters, volunteers and constituents who stood by her during the 2023 general elections.
She disclosed that a second phase of the programme would take place in November, appealing to those not captured to exercise patience.
“Although over 36,000 people voted for me and more than 5,000 supporters actively worked throughout the campaign, it will be practically impossible to accommodate everyone in one phase of the programme.
“I plead with those who did not benefit in the current phase to be patient. Another round of empowerment has already been scheduled for November this year to enable more people to benefit,” she said.
While charging beneficiaries to make productive use of the items, the lawmaker emphasizing that the empowerment was designed not merely as welfare package but as economic intervention.
“I strongly believe these equipment will improve livelihoods, create employment opportunities and enhance living standards of families across Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency.
“Sustainable empowerment remains one of the most effective approaches to tackling poverty, reducing youth unemployment and stimulating grassroots economic development,” she added.
Special Guest of Honour and Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi commended the benefactor for what he described as purposeful and people-oriented representation.
He also praised Senator Victor Umeh for his continued support and commitment to the development of the constituency.
Peter Obi observed that genuine leadership should be measured by visible impact on the lives of the people rather than empty political promises, stressing that initiatives capable of lifting citizens out of poverty ultimately contribute to reducing crime and insecurity.
He lamented the rising unemployment, poor state of education, weak healthcare system and growing insecurity in the country, attributing many of Nigeria’s challenges to poor governance and the mismanagement of public resources.
Reaffirming his vision for Nigeria, Obi promised that with competent and accountable leadership, the country could overcome hunger, insecurity, unemployment and economic hardship.
He equally called for credible elections in 2027, urging Nigerians to reject electoral malpractice and embrace the principles of equity, justice and fairness.
Also speaking, Senator Victor Umeh described Prof. Orogbu as a rare gift to the people of Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency.
He noted that the federal lawmaker has distinguished herself through quality representation, constituency projects, scholarships, road infrastructure and various empowerment initiatives.
According to him, her vocal contributions on the floor of the House of Representatives have continued to attract developmental projects to the constituency.
Senator Umeh maintained that allowing Prof. Orogbu to secure a second term would position her as a ranking member of the House, thereby increasing her capacity to attract even greater dividends of democracy to the constituency.
He equally described the empowerment programme as unprecedented, saying it reflects the lawmaker’s genuine commitment to improving the welfare of her constituents.
Earlier, the Anambra State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Hon. Ikem Uzoezie, congratulated Prof. Orogbu for fulfilling her campaign promises through impactful representation.
He urged constituents to continue supporting the party, expressing confidence that sustained electoral support would translate into more developmental projects and improved welfare for the people.
The event featured the formal presentation of empowerment items and scholarships amid excitement from beneficiaries, many of whom expressed gratitude for what they described as life-changing interventions.
Some beneficiaries, who spoke separately, said the items would help them establish or expand their businesses, create employment and improve the economic wellbeing of their families.
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