Kogi – Senator Natasha H. Akpoti Uduaghan has successfully trained and empowered 250 individuals and institutions across Nigeria with cutting-edge technology tools, including drones, laptops, and vocational equipment.
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The program, spearheaded by the office of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, focused heavily on drone technology—a sector globally recognized as the new frontier of socio-economic advancement. A total of 80 DJI drones, compliant with NCAA regulations and weighing under 250 grams each, were distributed to participants, including individuals and academic institutions.
“Drone technology is no longer futuristic; it is the present driver of development across sectors. From construction and agriculture to telecommunications and environmental monitoring, the use of drones is revolutionizing how we solve problems,” Senator Natasha stated during the event.
In a unique academic partnership, 10 tertiary institutions across the country were invited to participate, with departments of Geology and Environmental Science receiving one drone each for educational and research use. Participating institutions included:
1. Federal College of Education, Okene
2. Kogi State University, Anyigba
3. Federal University, Lokoja
4. Federal Polytechnic, Idah
5. University of Ilorin
6. Bayero University, Kano
7. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
8. Federal University of Science and Technology, Minna
(Note: Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, and Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja were absent.)
Beyond drone deployment, participants were also trained on various practical applications such as agricultural monitoring, delivery services, oil and gas operations, geospatial mapping, and more.
In addition to drone technology, the empowerment program featured:
70 HP laptops for data analytics and digital skills training
50 engineering toolboxes and safety kits
50 welding machines with full protective gear
The program drew beneficiaries from a wide range of states, including Zamfara, Ondo, Oyo, Delta, Borno, Cross River, Edo, Abia, Imo, and Akwa Ibom, reinforcing the inclusive nature of the initiative.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to building capacity, encouraging innovation, and putting Kogi Central—and Nigeria—on the global technology map,” Senator Natasha affirmed.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the Senator’s dedication to quality, youth development, and God-centered leadership.
“Kogi Central to the world — only the best will do.”
