Prof. Oby Lilian Orogbu, The Member Representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency, has demonstrated a commendable commitment to her legislative duties within just a year of holding office. Her major functions as a legislator encompass lawmaking, representation, and oversight, and she has excelled in all these areas.
Prof. Orogbu has been proactive in sponsoring significant bills and motions. Notably, she advocated for the inclusion of UNIZIK staff on the IPPIS platform, ensuring that overdue salaries of over two years were promptly settled. Her dedication to her constituents’ welfare is further evidenced by her petitions against banditry attacks in Awka North LGA and the Nigerian Army regarding a missing soldier from Mubi Barracks, Adamawa State.
On 25th December 2023, Prof. Orogbu successfully procured and delivered 2,570 bags of rice across the 34 wards of her constituency. She also self-sponsored a free fueling outreach in Awka North and South, alleviating the burden of high fuel costs for drivers by fueling hundreds of Keke vehicles. In her commitment to education, she covered the JAMB exam fees for 170 indigent students and pledged to enroll the top-performing students from each ward into her scholarship foundation.
In terms of continuity, Prof. Orogbu resurrected the bill to establish the University of Agriculture at Awba-Ofemmili, initially sponsored by her predecessor, Hon. Chinedu Onwuaso. She also sponsored a bill for the establishment of a federal college of entrepreneurship and skill acquisition in Isiagu, Awka South, Anambra State. Moreover, she has facilitated job opportunities for her constituents, ensuring they are invited to apply for various positions and providing follow-up support through her office.
Prof. Orogbu has addressed critical national issues related to health, education, security, and the economy on the floor of the house. Her efforts have earned her an appointment as a member of the Pan-African parliament, a legislative body of the African Union. She has participated in numerous conferences, both locally and internationally, aimed at attracting humanitarian aid to her constituency and engaging the youth in meaningful activities to compete globally.
Her exceptional performance in the 10th National Assembly has set her apart from her peers, leading to recognition by the German Embassy for her achievements as a female lawmaker.
As the 2024 budget awaits implementation, it is anticipated that the dividends of democracy and the fortunes of effective representation she has attracted will be executed, further benefiting her constituency. It is important to note that while she has achieved much, there are inherent limits to what a legislator can accomplish.
Prof. Orogbu’s tenure thus far has been marked by a fervent pursuit of her constituents’ interests and a dedication to enhancing their quality of life. Her legislative acumen and community engagement set a high standard for public service.