Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi Central, announced on Friday the launch of an electric motor vehicle (EMV) instruction programme for constituents under the operate-and-own model.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that the initiative aligns with the Kogi Central constituency development programme.
She said that the programme’s implementation had previously been suspended during a town hall meeting in Ihima, Okehi local government region.
The senator stated that the pause was intentional and aimed at achieving regulatory standards and maintaining public trust.
“We intentionally paused the rollout to get the structure right. Empowerment must be transparent, accountable, and sustainable. Public trust is not negotiable,” she said.
According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, the cessation approved the EMV management firm to register with the corporate affairs commission (CAC).
She added that electricians and technicians were educated to ensure the vehicles’ proper maintenance and long-term functionality.
“This programme is not just about distributing vehicles; it is about building capacity and systems that will last,” she said.
The senator stated that the CAC registration procedure had been completed, but motor vehicle registrations were still being processed.
She stated that the locally made electric vehicles would be deployed immediately following the final registration procedure.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that beneficiaries, mainly women and youths, will then start commercial operations as planned.
“Our goal is to empower our people with dignity by creating sustainable livelihoods, lowering transportation costs, and preparing Kogi central for a cleaner, greener future,” she said.
She described the EMV program as a landmark project that blends economic empowerment and environmental stewardship.
The senator stated that a newly registered trust fund has been established to administer the EMV scheme and other constituency assets.
She stated that the assets include the SNAU Foundation maternity center and modern marketplaces in Okene and Ihima.
“Structure ensures sustainability, and accountability guarantees equitable benefits for all. That is the foundation of every intervention we implement,” she said.
According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, the EMV technical training programme will train 100 eligible indigenes and Kogi Central residents.
She stated that participants would receive hands-on training in the operation and maintenance of electric and solar-powered tricycles.
The senator stated that successful participants would have the opportunity to purchase and operate the cars for sustainable income generation
“This is empowerment with purpose, creating jobs, promoting innovation, and giving our people the tools to thrive,” she said.
She encouraged interested parties to follow the application procedures outlined in the officially released information documents.
