‎In a bold move to close the tech gap and boost self-reliance, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan equips constituents with digital skills, drones, and support for tertiary institutions.

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‎In a landmark initiative focused on digital empowerment and technological advancement, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central Senatorial District has trained and empowered 250 youths with highly sought-after skills in drone technology, data analytics, renewable energy, and advanced fabrication techniques.
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‎As part of the programme, 80 beneficiaries received intensive training in drone security and environmental sustainability, culminating in the free distribution of 80 DJI Neo drones. These drones, compliant with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority's sub-250g safety regulations, were allocated to individuals and departments across 10 Nigerian tertiary institutions to boost academic research and field applications.
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‎Additionally, 70 participants were trained in data analytics and digital transformation, 50 in renewable energy installation, and another 50 in advanced welding and fabrication techniques — bringing the total number of empowered constituents to 250.
‎The comprehensive empowerment programme, held at Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s residence in Kogi Central, was designed to promote self-reliance by equipping youth and academic institutions with practical, employable skills. The initiative aims to bridge Nigeria’s technology and skill divide by strategically investing in capacity-building for sustainable development.
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‎Speaking at the event, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized the importance of embracing emerging technologies:
‎“Our people deserve to be empowered with the very best of technology for self-reliance. Drone technology, for example, is a new frontier for socio-economic development globally  and Nigeria must not be left behind.”
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‎She noted that her decision to prioritize drone training was inspired by countries like South Africa, Egypt, Malawi, and Ethiopia, which have successfully applied drone technology in agriculture, mining, infrastructure monitoring, and other critical sectors.
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‎Highlighting the versatility of drones, she pointed out their applications beyond photography — including construction, oil and gas inspection, agricultural surveying, delivery logistics, environmental monitoring, telecommunications, and geographic mapping.
‎To reinforce the academic component of the initiative, departments of Geology and Environmental Science from 10 institutions were selected to receive drone units for hands-on student training. Beneficiary institutions include:
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‎Federal College of Education, Okene
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‎Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara
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‎Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba
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‎Federal University, Lokoja
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‎Federal Polytechnic, Idah
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‎Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja
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‎University of Ilorin
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‎Bayero University, Kano
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‎Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
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‎Federal University of Science and Technology, Minna
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‎This latest empowerment drive follows closely on the heels of other developmental projects by the senator, including the recent launch of two smart markets in Kogi Central with a combined capacity of 160 shops, and the distribution of 700 computers to students of Abdul-Azeez Attah Memorial College, Okene (AAAMCO).
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‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to transforming Kogi Central through innovation-driven opportunities and continuous investment in youth development.
‎ “This is just the beginning. Our people deserve the best, and I remain committed to ensuring they have access to modern tools and opportunities that can change their lives.”
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