The rollout of Electric Motor Vehicles (EMVs) in Kogi Central, a key part of the constituency's development agenda, is back on track. This follows the successful completion of mandatory regulatory and structural frameworks that had temporarily paused the initiative.
Strategic Pause for Transparency and Sustainability
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly, clarified that the earlier suspension announced at a town hall meeting in Ihima was a deliberate strategy. The goal was to ensure transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability for the empowerment scheme.
"We paused the rollout to put proper structures in place because public trust is not negotiable," the senator stated. She emphasized that empowerment must be executed correctly to have a lasting impact.
Key Milestones Achieved During the Hiatus
The period of suspension was used to achieve several critical objectives. Firstly, the management company for the EMV programme was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This provides a solid governance framework and protects public interest.
Secondly, the time was utilized to train electricians and technicians who will be responsible for maintaining the electric and solar-powered tricycles. This step is crucial for ensuring the vehicles' durability and uninterrupted commercial use by beneficiaries.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that while CAC registration is complete, the process of registering the vehicles themselves is ongoing. The locally assembled EMVs will be deployed immediately after final documentation is concluded.
Operate and Own Model for Lasting Impact
To further the programme's goals, the Office of the Kogi Central Senatorial District has opened applications for the Electric Motor Vehicle Technical Training Programme. This scheme operates under an Operate and Own Model (OOM) and is expected to benefit 100 eligible indigenes and residents.
The training will equip participants with technical and operational skills for using and maintaining the eco-friendly tricycles. Successful trainees will have the opportunity to own and operate the vehicles for commercial purposes, primarily targeting women and youths.
The senator described this as a shift from short-term handouts to a structured empowerment model focused on skills development and long-term economic impact.
Institutional Oversight and Future Vision
To ensure robust oversight, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan announced the establishment of a newly registered Trust Fund. This entity will manage the EMV programme alongside other constituency assets like the SNAU Foundation Maternity Centre and modern markets in Okene and Ihima.
She framed the EMV initiative as a strategic intervention to reduce unemployment, lower transportation costs, and promote environmental sustainability through clean energy. "Our focus is on creating sustainable livelihoods with dignity while preparing Kogi Central for a cleaner and more economically resilient future," she concluded.
