The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has confirmed the resumption of the Electric Motor Vehicle (EMV) rollout programme, with no fewer than 100 indigenes of Kogi Central set to benefit from the initiative.
The announcement was made through a statement released in Abuja by her Special Adviser on Media, Mike Idoko, following the completion of key regulatory and structural processes that had earlier delayed deployment.
The programme, which forms part of the senator’s economic empowerment and clean-energy agenda, is designed to provide young people and women with income-generating assets while promoting environmentally friendly transportation across communities in the district.
Why the Rollout Was Temporarily Paused
According to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the EMV initiative was deliberately paused after its initial unveiling to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements and to establish a solid governance structure for the programme.
She explained that the decision, which was communicated to constituents during a town hall meeting in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, was taken to protect public confidence and guarantee long-term sustainability.
“We took time to put the right systems in place. Empowerment initiatives must be transparent, properly structured, and accountable. Public confidence is essential,” the senator stated.
During the pause, the EMV management company overseeing the project was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), a move she described as necessary to provide legal backing, transparency, and responsible oversight.
Capacity Building and Technical Preparation
In addition to regulatory compliance, the period was used to strengthen the technical foundation of the programme. Electricians and technicians were trained to handle vehicle maintenance and servicing, ensuring that beneficiaries would not only receive the vehicles but also benefit from reliable technical support.
“This initiative goes beyond handing out vehicles. It is about building systems, skills, and structures that can be sustained over time,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.
She confirmed that the CAC registration process has now been completed and that vehicle registration is progressing steadily, clearing the way for deployment.
Deployment and Beneficiaries
With documentation nearing completion, the senator disclosed that the locally assembled electric tricycles will be deployed shortly, allowing selected beneficiaries to begin commercial operations as planned.
She noted that the programme prioritises youths and women, offering them a chance to earn a stable income, reduce transportation costs, and participate in the transition to cleaner energy solutions.
“Our objective is to empower people with dignity by creating livelihoods that are sustainable, affordable, and environmentally responsible,” she said.
Linking Empowerment With Clean Energy
The EMV scheme combines economic empowerment with renewable energy adoption. By introducing electric and solar-powered tricycles, the programme supports reduced fuel dependence and lower emissions, while opening up new opportunities for small-scale transport entrepreneurs.
Akpoti-Uduaghan described the initiative as part of a broader effort to prepare Kogi Central for a future that embraces innovation, cleaner energy, and inclusive growth.
New Trust Fund for Oversight
To strengthen accountability and long-term management, the senator announced the establishment of a newly registered Trust Fund. The fund will oversee the EMV programme alongside other constituency projects, including:
The SNAU Foundation Maternity Centre
Modern markets in Okene and Ihima
According to her, the Trust Fund will ensure proper asset management, fairness in beneficiary selection, and continuity beyond political cycles.
“Strong structures support sustainability, and accountability ensures that benefits are shared fairly. That is the approach guiding all our interventions,” she said.
Applications Open for Electric Vehicle Technical Training
As part of the EMV initiative, the Office of the Kogi Central Senatorial District has also opened applications for the Electric Motor Vehicle Technical Training Programme under the Operate and Own Model.
The programme is designed to train 100 eligible indigenes and residents of Kogi Central in the operation and maintenance of electric and solar-powered tricycles.
Successful participants will receive hands-on technical and operational training, with opportunities to own and operate the vehicles after completion. This approach allows beneficiaries to move directly into income-generating activities and entrepreneurship.
“This programme creates jobs, encourages innovation, and equips our people with practical tools for economic independence,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are advised to follow the application procedures outlined in the officially released programme materials. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps. click here to apply
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