Senator Natasha commissions past projects to celebrate her first year in office

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, on Saturday marked her first year in office by distributing empowerment materials and launching several projects across her district.

In the press release made by Chief Press Secretary Arogbonlo Israel, it was noted that his colleagues in the Senate also attended the celebration.

The events began with the inauguration of the 1 km road network at Abdul Azeez Memorial College, Okene, under the direction of the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro.

Senator Tahir Monguno inaugurated the reconstruction of the college which now includes nine classroom blocks, four hostels and 5,000 digital learning devices for students.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also inaugurated the newly built Ihima Police Station in the presence of the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bertrand onuoha.

The event also saw an empowerment program launched by Senator Moro. Speaking about the senator’s achievements, Senator Musa Ladan, representative of the Deputy President of the Senate, lauded his commitment to humanitarian service and effective representation.

Senate President Whip, Senator Monguno, emphasized the importance of education initiatives, lauding efforts to digitize learning in Kogi Central.

Senator Moro praised the projects and noted their positive impact on security and community development.

Reflecting on her achievements, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized her commitment to fulfilling her campaign promises. “The past year has been a journey full of commitment, challenges and dedication for the well-being and development of our people.

“My vision was to create a senatorial district where every child has the opportunity to learn, every youth has access to meaningful employment, and every family has basic amenities like clean water and electricity,” he said.

He highlighted his initiatives, including distributing 5,000 digital learning devices to public schools and launching a major overhaul in selected schools.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also announced plans to build new primary and secondary schools, an artificial intelligence and robotics centre, and an automotive mechatronics workshop, with construction expected in early 2025.

A scholarship program delivered through the Natasha Foundation has supported 353 vulnerable students at higher education institutions across the country, and empowerment programs have trained more than 1,300 artisans in fields ranging from renewable energy to catering, with start-up grants provided to all participants.

He noted the success of water projects that provide drinking water to many communities, including a large solar-powered system serving 300 locations with 1,800 water taps.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan further elaborated on his contributions to infrastructure, including the illumination of 30km of roads across Kogi Central to improve safety.

He met security needs by rebuilding the Ihima Police Station and pledged to support healthcare by rehabilitating primary health centers in Ohueta and Osara, with construction to begin in two weeks. Medical support programs are also planned for Ajaokuta and Okehi.

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On legislative efforts, he highlighted his drive to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company and expand the mandate of the National Iron Ore Mining Company to develop Kogi’s natural resources.

“With bills such as the Gold Reserve Bill and the proposed Federal Medical Center in Ihima, we aim to transform the industrial landscape of Kogi State and create job opportunities,” he added.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for their support, stating that the collaborative approach was effective in accessing resources for the development of his region.

The event was attended by key dignitaries including the Deputy President of the Senate, Senate Chief Whip Senator Monguno, Senate Minority Leader Senator Moro and representatives of Senators Ede Dafinone, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, Ekong Sampson, Anthony Yaro and Olubiyi Fadeyi.

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