Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Senator representing Kogi Central has launched a digital and technical skills training programme.
Gatekeepers News reports that total of 250 young participants underwent intensive training in various high-demand sectors as part of the initiative, which took place at the senator’s residence.
The programme focused on areas such as drone security and environmental remediation ( 80 beneficiaries), advanced welding and fabrication techniques ( 50 beneficiaries), renewable energy installation ( 50 beneficiaries), and data analytics and digital transformation ( 70 beneficiaries).
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that the initiative is part of her broader mission to close Nigeria’s digital divide and prepare young people for emerging opportunities across industries.
While addressing attendees, she stated that the people of Kogi deserve access to the most advanced technologies to enable self-reliance and sustainable development.
The senator further expressed her desire to see the state take the lead in innovation and technical progress.
Drawing inspiration from countries like South Africa, Malawi, Egypt, and Ethiopia, where drone technology is already transforming sectors like agriculture, mining, and infrastructure, the senator announced the distribution of 80 DJI Neo drones to individuals and educational institutions across the country.
She emphasised that drones are not just tools for photography, but powerful devices for use in areas such as construction, oil and gas, environmental monitoring, mapping, and delivery services.
To further enhance educational impact, ten tertiary institutions from different regions of Nigeria were selected to receive drones, with the aim of integrating modern technology into teaching, research, and entrepreneurial training.
The terciary institutions include Federal College of Education, Okene; Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara; Kogi State University, Anyigba; Federal University, Lokoja; Federal Polytechnic, Idah; Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja; University of Ilorin; Bayero University, Kano; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; and Federal University of Science and Technology, Minna.
The senator noted that all drones comply with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s safety regulations, being under 250 grams, ensuring safe and legal operation.
This latest project comes on the heels of other notable achievements by the senator, including the establishment of two smart markets with 160 shops and the donation of 700 computers to students in Okene.
Senator Natasha reaffirmed her commitment to empowering her constituents with knowledge, innovation, and tools that will prepare them for the future, stating that Kogi people deserve nothing less than the best.
See photos from the event below;
