… Flags Off Smart Markets in Kogi
The senator representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has said that despite her suspension, she never stopped working for the people she represents, as she remained constantly engaged in delivering democratic dividends and pursuing their welfare.
The Senator made the remark on Sunday as she flagged off the construction of smart markets in Okene and Okehi Local Government Areas, a project designed to uplift local traders, particularly women, and strengthen grassroots economic development.
“Even during the wrongful suspension, we kept working. Leadership doesn’t pause outside the walls of the chambers. Leadership is about service and being responsible for the people, and that’s why we’re gathered here for the commencement of the markets construction” she told the enthusiastic gathering during the ceremony.
The project, which consists of 80 modern shops at each location, including two blocks of 40 lock-up shops and two blocks of 40 open stores, marks a major infrastructural boost for rural commerce in the senatorial district.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said the initiative is part of a broader commitment to transform trading environments and provide market women with safe, accessible, and dignified spaces to do business.
“These women are the economic engine of our rural communities,” she said. “The goal is to provide safe, functional, and dignified spaces where they can trade and thrive.”
She further addressed her recent six-month suspension by the Senate, which was nullified by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The court ruled that the suspension was unlawful.
“There was no reason why we should not be representing you,” she said. “Even when I was unjustly kept away from plenary, I remained with you, working, listening, and planning.”
The smart markets are being constructed at the Ihima Central Market in Oboroke, Okehi LGA, and at the new Community Market in Okene LGA. Senator Natasha noted that initial consideration was given to Bariki and Manaka markets, but the absence of sufficient expansion space led to the new locations.
Each market will feature solar-powered electricity, boreholes for water supply, electrical sockets in shops, modern toilets, streetlights, and truck-friendly loading bay, all aimed at making the markets secure and efficient.
“Each decision we make is in the best interest of all our people,” she emphasized.
Highlighting her inclusive approach to governance, she added: “I represent all the good people of Kogi Central at the Senate. Politics happened during the election. After that, it’s performance —and leadership delivering measurable impact for everyone, irrespective of political differences.”
She assured that the markets will be completed and commissioned by November 2025, to coincide with her second anniversary in office.
“These projects are part of many more coming. We’re just getting started,” she said.
The event was attended by traditional leaders, women groups, and youth organizations, who lauded the Senator’s resilience, commitment, and continued service despite political hurdles. Her constituents hailed the projects as timely and transformative.
