EKWUNIFE, Sen Uche Lilian

is popularly called, soon found herself in public glare as she delved into politics in 2007. She was elected into the Federal House of Representatives to represent Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia Federal Constituency of Anambra State. This is currently the largest constituency in the geo-political divide of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Since her first inauguration in 2007 up till her re-election into the hallowed chambers in 2011, Senator Ekwunife has continued to make credible representation her access code. Senator Ekwunife who is popularly referred to as The New Face of Nigerian Environment by her colleagues in the House of Representatives, ran for the governorship seat of Anambra State in 2010 and 2013, and at both times, she came very close to clinching victory. As a role model to many and undisputedly one of the most influential female politicians in Anambra State and indeed, Nigeria, Iyom has over the years proved her sterling qualities as a great leader of the people. Her humane disposition to the feelings of humanity has also established her as a voice that the people can always trust. This jewel of inestimable value sees her mandate as a veritable tool and an opportunity to better the lots of her people. Being a woman of substance who enjoys putting smiles on the faces of people, she established the Sir Emmanuel Ogudebe scholarship scheme for the education of the indigent but intelligent students. Named after her father, this scheme which has over 100 beneficiaries in Anambra State, has uplifted the lives of many widows and families of the less privileged. This philanthropist of no mean repute, has, no doubt, distinguished herself in all spheres of life. On records, she is credited to have assisted a number of youths too numerous to mention in the area of employment. The Senator Uche Ekwunife Youths and Widows Support Centre, is a Non-Governmental Organisation established by the Honourable to help in capacity building of the youths and widows. Our esteemed Honourable has so far assisted more than 30 women travel to Dubai for various businesses and also sponsored more than 10 women travel to Israel for the holy pilgrimage. She has also sponsored more than 15 Clergymen to Israel for holy pilgrimage. Her role in the development of the Ofala festivals coupled with her unflinching support in the annual Igu-Aro festival of Nri Community speak volumes of her love and regard for the traditional institution of our land.