More than 100 trained residents of Kogi Central have received electric vehicles from the senator representing the district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a major empowerment drive focused on clean energy and sustainable income generation.

The beneficiaries, selected from the five local government areas within the senatorial district, emerged after a thorough screening exercise. They subsequently underwent intensive training on electric mobility, funded entirely by the senator. The programme was facilitated by engineers and experts from Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), who equipped participants with practical knowledge on safe operation, maintenance and efficient management of the vehicles.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that the initiative was designed to position Kogi Central in line with global shifts toward renewable energy and environmentally friendly transportation, while also addressing unemployment and economic challenges in the district.

She noted that electric vehicles are increasingly shaping modern transportation systems worldwide and that providing constituents with the necessary tools and skills would enable them to tap into emerging opportunities within the green economy.

According to her, the project goes beyond simple distribution of vehicles, as it aims to build long-term technical capacity and encourage entrepreneurship. She described it as an effort to establish a sustainable framework where young people and small-scale business owners can prosper and actively participate in ongoing technological advancements.

The senator urged the beneficiaries to demonstrate professionalism and adhere strictly to safety standards as they commence operations. She emphasized the importance of obeying traffic rules, avoiding reckless driving, and maintaining the vehicles properly to ensure both personal and public safety.

She also encouraged them to use the opportunity to uplift their families and communities, expressing hope that their success stories would inspire others across the district.

In her closing remarks, Akpoti-Uduaghan offered prayers for the beneficiaries, seeking protection, prosperity and continued development for Kogi Central.

Observers at the event described the initiative as an innovative combination of environmental sustainability and economic empowerment, noting that it sets a strong example for constituency-driven development programmes.