By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has distributed electric vehicles to beneficiaries in her district, saying the initiative is aimed at promoting innovation, sustainability and long-term economic empowerment.
Speaking in a live video posted on her official Facebook page during the rollout, the senator said the beneficiaries had undergone proper training before receiving the vehicles.
“We have handed the vehicles to all the beneficiaries. They are set to drive out of the compound, and the most important part is that we have two women among them. The beneficiaries are ready to drive out of the compound. I would like one of the ladies to drive me.
“One thing about these vehicles is that they are so fast. That was why, after they were unveiled last November, we had to train them before handing them over to the beneficiaries. To drive an electric vehicle is different from a normal vehicle because it accelerates so fast and needs extra skill to handle. We put out applications for the vehicles and two women applied, and this is one of them, Esther.”
She explained that the beneficiaries participated in two separate training sessions before taking possession of the vehicles.
“The beneficiaries participated in two trainings. One was to learn how to drive the electric vehicle, and the other was on how to fix the batteries and plugs in case of emergencies before they are taken to experts.
“The world is moving away from the use of diesel and fossil fuels, and I don’t think Nigeria should be left behind.”
Highlighting the story of one of the female beneficiaries, she said:
“Esther has been driving a tricycle, but she has not really owned one. She used to hire the tricycle, ride it and give it back at the end of the day. But now, she is a proud owner of the vehicle. She participated in the two trainings.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan also acknowledged the support of the vehicle supplier, Prince Mustapha Audu.
“The person we bought the vehicles from, Prince Mustapha Audu, has been really supportive. In addition to training the beneficiaries, he also offered to train mechanics so they can be experts in handling the vehicles.”
The vehicles were supplied by Electric Motor Vehicle Company, according to the senator.
Describing the initiative as part of a broader vision for sustainable development, she said: “Intention, not impression. Impact, not handouts. Innovation, not convenience. Legacy, not perception.
“Our beneficiaries are not just empowered; they are well trained and fully equipped with the technical skills required for the operation and maintenance of each vehicle.
“Now, we are taking the longer route because it is the only route that guarantees lasting impact.
“For sure, sustainable development is not about temporary applause; it is about building systems that endure.
“Make una patronise them.”
Stonix News reports that some of the beneficiaries included one Nurudeen from Okene Local Government, Michael Onofua from Edo State residing in Ajaokuta, Kogi Central, and Abdullah Salam, Esther, among others.
The beneficiaries appreciated the senator for the kind gesture.
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