In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting sustainability and grassroots empowerment, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is set to distribute locally assembled electric vehicles to more than 100 constituents in Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The project, part of her annual constituency empowerment programme, represents the first large-scale deployment of made-in-Nigeria electric vehicles for community use. According to a statement from her Media Office on Friday, the senator described the initiative as her “ritual of giving back, but this time, with a futuristic twist that promotes sustainability, innovation, and self-reliance.”
Renewable energy expert Udensi Bernard, who is collaborating with the senator on the project, recounted that the idea was conceived two weeks ago when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan paid an unscheduled visit to his office. “She came straight to the point and said, ‘I want to carry out my yearly empowerment, but this time, I want to empower my people with electric vehicles,’” Bernard said.
Following that meeting, production and assembly of the vehicles began immediately in Nigeria, using local materials and labour. The models, handpicked by the senator, are expected to be unveiled soon in Kogi Central, with beneficiaries drawn from women, farmers, and small business owners.
Bernard noted that the vehicles are designed for durability and affordability, offering significant benefits to rural communities. “For farmers, they make it easier to move produce to markets. For business owners, they reduce logistics costs. For transport operators, they increase profits while cutting dependence on petrol and diesel,” he explained.
The initiative, the statement added, supports Nigeria’s ongoing transition to renewable energy and clean technologies by reducing fuel costs, minimizing maintenance, and lowering carbon emissions.
Described as a potential model for integrating green innovation into constituency development, the project also positions Kogi Central as a pioneer in Nigeria’s clean mobility drive. “Senator Natasha’s initiative is not just empowerment. It is a visionary step toward a cleaner, smarter, and more self-reliant Nigeria,” the statement read.
Since returning to legislative duties after a six-month suspension, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has intensified efforts to reconnect with her constituents through impactful projects. The electric vehicle empowerment programme is expected to be officially launched in the coming weeks, attracting interest from policymakers, environmental advocates, and the local automobile industry.
With this initiative, the senator is setting a new benchmark for constituency representation one that merges innovation with inclusion, and empowerment with sustainability.
