In a bold leap toward a smarter and more self-reliant Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has empowered 250 young people with hands-on training in drone technology, digital innovation, and future-facing technical skills.
The initiative, hosted at her residence in Kogi Central, wasn’t just a skills workshop—it was a glimpse into the future. From piloting DJI Neo drones to analyzing complex datasets, welding with precision, and installing renewable energy systems, the programme delivered high-impact training across critical sectors.
Eighty participants were trained in drone security and environmental remediation. Fifty others mastered fabrication techniques. Another 50 explored renewable energy installation. And 70 dove into data analytics and digital transformation—a skillset that’s quickly becoming the heartbeat of modern economies.
“This is more than empowerment—it’s a mission to bridge the digital divide and unlock the hidden genius in our youth,” Senator Natasha declared at the closing ceremony. “Our people must be equipped not just for today’s jobs, but for tomorrow’s innovations.”
One of the most powerful moments came when 80 DJI Neo drones were handed out—free of charge—to individual trainees and select institutions. The lightweight drones, fully compliant with NCAA safety standards, unlock opportunities in agriculture, security, logistics, construction, environmental monitoring, and much more.
Senator Natasha cited global success stories—South Africa, Egypt, Malawi, Ethiopia—where drones have already transformed sectors and scaled up national development. “The drone is not a toy; it’s a tool for prosperity,” she said.
Ten Nigerian tertiary institutions were invited to join the wave. Departments of Geology and Environmental Sciences from institutions like Federal College of Education Okene, Kogi State University Anyigba, University of Ilorin, Bayero University Kano, and Ahmadu Bello University Zaria received drones and training kits to enhance their academic offerings.
“This is how you build a future—from the ground up and from the sky down,” she said.
The tech empowerment programme follows two recent development interventions by the senator: the construction of two smart markets with 160 shops in Kogi Central, and the distribution of 700 computers to students of Abdul-Azeez Attah Memorial College, Okene.
But for Senator Natasha, this is just the beginning.
“We’re not waiting for the future to happen to us—we are building it,” she said. “With every drone launched and every skill acquired, we are charting a new path for Kogi’s youth and Nigeria’s tomorrow.”
