Over the years, women have broken boundaries and succeeded in previously male dominated sectors, particularly politics. From grassroots activism to high-level leadership roles, women are creating a significant impact and propelling change. They’re fighting against stereotypes, influencing laws, and supporting causes that affect people’s lives. Thanks to their contributions, future generations of women will be encouraged to enter politics with confidence. Their contributions are a testament to resilience and the desire for fair governance.

Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti Uduaghan is an excellent example of this advancement. In Nigerian politics, she has established herself as a social entrepreneur, barrister, and fearless supporter of transparency and development. Akpoti-Uduaghan has used her voice to advocate for justice and accountability, from exposing wrongdoing at the Ajaokuta Steel Mill to becoming the first female elected senator for Kogi state.

Her achievements have inspired many young women, demonstrating that even the most challenging obstacles may be conquered with integrity and persistence.

In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan discusses her political journey, challenges, and vision for a better Nigeria. She opens up about her passion for service, dedication to uplifting others, and advice to young women aspiring to make a difference in the world.

What inspired your transition from a successful career in law to being a politician?

Thank you very much for this opportunity to connect with Nigerians through your magazine. Firstly, I am still a lawyer and always will be. In addition, I’m an MBA professional in the Oil and Gas sector wherein my career formative years were spent in Brass LNG as a corporate lawyer.

However, my transition into politics was inspired by a passion to address the root causes of societal challenges beyond advocacy. In my career, I encountered numerous situations where systemic failures and poor governance perpetuated injustice and inequality, sparking my determination to advocate for change at a broader level. Politics provided the opportunity to not just identify problems but to create and implement policies that directly impact the lives of my constituents. I was motivated by a vision to influence the resuscitation of the moribund Ajaokuta steel complex, empower marginalised communities and ensure development reaches all corners of society. Ultimately, it was a call to serve and lead with purpose, bridge the gap between actionable governance; and, bring the dividends of democracy to my people.

How did you feel when you were declared the Kogi Central Senatorial District Election winner in 2023, after all the challenges you faced?

To many people around me, it was a joyous moment. They were quite elated. The declaration offered a huge relief from the burden of their sacrifices all through my political journey. But to me, it was surreal as it got me conflicted. A lot of thoughts weighed in on me: I remembered my supporters whose lives were cut short for believing in me; I remembered my supporters who were permanently incapacitated for believing in the cause; I remembered the numerous, whose houses were burnt down for supporting me; and, I remembered those who survived gunshot injuries and are bearing scares in the course of supporting me. And so the declaration provided me a sober moment to reflect on those fates. Equally, it got me thinking deeply about our institutions: why, despite notorious and overwhelming evidence, the electoral umpire did not have the courage to declare the rightful winner in the contest and why it had to take the courts to enforce electorate justice. Ultimately, I was consoled that justice came in the end and that my supporters’ efforts were not in vain.

What led to the establishment of BHIIP in 2015, and is the NGO still alive?

Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP) was informed by the existence, in abundance, of local, small and medium manpower and businesses whose productive capacities have not been harnessed for mass production and high-income yielding. The whole idea is to bring form and structure to grassroot enterprises with innovation to ancient heritage skills and market their products to the world. In the first quarter of 2025, BHIIP shall commence the construction of an Artisanal Village right in my hometown in Kogi state, where thousands of skilled locals will deploy their traditional talents in producing handwoven fabrics, churning shear butter, making black soap, etc., for export.

What are your top priorities as a Senator in the National Assembly?

In a broad category, the topmost priorities of a legislator are located in law-making, oversight, and constituency representation. I strive to ensure that the perspectives of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District, where necessary, are contributed to all processes at the national level. Moreover, driving sustainable development, promoting social justice, empowering communities and strengthening the private sector ecosystem are at the fore of what I do. Firstly, I am committed to improving infrastructure and access to basic amenities such as education, healthcare, clean water by ensuring these concerns are captured in the federal budget. Secondly, I prioritise the empowerment of women and youths through entrepreneurship empowerment programs, skill acquisition and job creation. Thirdly, I focus on legislative reforms that strengthen governance, transparency and accountability to ensure that public resources are utilised effectively.

What specific accomplishments have you been most proud of since you assumed ffice as a Senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District?

They are quite enormous and humbling, compared to the 12 months we have been in office. First, I started by reinvigorating my age-long advocacy for the resuscitation of Ajaokuta Steel Complex, to recalibrate the vision and mission of the complex in industrialising Nigeria. Now, using the legislative platform (vide a Motion), a flurry of activities has ensued, seeking to ascertain the state and challenges of the complex. I have also sponsored the Gold Reserve Bill and the Federal Medical Centre, Ihima, establishment Bill. While the Gold Reserve Bill introduces novelties in the management of gold resources and banking reserves, the Federal Medical Centre, Ihima, establishment Bill caters to the welfare and health needs and employment opportunities of our people.

Equally, in the last year, we have attracted employment opportunities for graduates and beneficiaries from our District to gain employment in the Federal establishments. I have been addressing essential community needs, such as access to clean water, with 12 massive 50,000 litres solar-powered motorised water systems reticulated to 300 locations, thereby providing 1,800 fetching taps. Also, electricity projects have been, and are still being executed all over our Senatorial District such as lighting 30 kilometers of road networks across Kogi central making our communities more productive and safer. I also constructed a Police station, rehabilitated primary Healthcare centers and a number of public schools. Moreover, the construction of a brand-new Model Primary and Secondary school Osara is on-going; as well as the facilitation of a Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at the Federal College of Education Okene, and an Automotive Mechatronics and Cottage Automobile Workshop in the Technical College, Oboroke both of which shall be completed in the last quarter of 2025.

We are also deploying 5,000 digital learning devices to public primary and secondary schools across Kogi Central. Furthermore, the Natasha Akpoti–Uduaghan Foundation (NAUF) has supported the tuition of 353 indigent and vulnerable students from the District in tertiary institutions nationwide. A few weeks ago, we empowered over 1,300 artisans, comprising women and youths, with tools, equipment sand cash grants for their businesses.

How do you plan to represent your constituents and the Nigerian women in the Upper Chamber?

As a female senator, I strive to represent my constituents especially women by being a strong advocate for inclusivity, equity and sustainable development. I actively sponsor and support legislation that addresses the unique challenges women face, such as gender-based violence, lack of access to education and economic inequality. For my constituents, I ensure that their needs and voices are reflected in my policy decisions, focusing of community – driven initiatives to address healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. I also mentor and inspire women and girls, proving that leadership is possible and achievable for everyone, regardless of gender.

Above all, I believe that living as an example of what one stands and fights for is the greatest plan of action for effectively representing a body or group of persons. That way, one builds the trust, followership, and commitment necessary for effective representation and role modelling.

What are some of the challenges you face as a Senator, and how do you overcome them?

Firstly, notwithstanding that I assumed office six months behind schedule, I found the Senate and my colleagues quite welcoming. The “atmosphere” was healthy, and receptive. It has remained so to this day, and I remain grateful to my colleagues and, particularly, the leadership of the Senate, which is ably led by the Senate President, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio.
Challenges? I definitely encountered a handful.

Albeit, worthy to mention is the navigation of deeply entrenched political structures, addressing resistance to progressive ideas, and overcoming gender biases in leadership.

However, naturally I am a person who embraces challenges; and to overcome them, I rely on resilience, strategic collaborations with my colleagues and effective communication to build consensus and drive initiatives. I also draw strength from my values, staying focused on my goals and the impact I seek to create.

What advice would you give women who want to pursue a career in politics?

My advice to women who want to pursue a career in politics is to approach it with courage, purpose and resilience. Believe in your abilities and never let societal stereotypes or biases deter you from achieving your goals. Every woman should equip herself with knowledge and a solid network starting with a strong family support…husband for those who are married. Moreover, politics requires perseverance, so women in politics must stay focused on the vision and let the passion for positive change guide their journey.

When successful, women must remain dedicated to serving with integrity because each woman paves a path for other women. Finally, women must support and mentor other women as unity and collaboration are essential to breaking barriers and help amplify women’s voices in leadership.

How can we encourage more women to participate in politics?

Encouraging more women to participate in politics requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, we must target the foundation by arming the girl-child with a good education that will make her build enough confidence to break societal barriers like gender stereotypes and cultural biases.

Secondly, we must create policies that promote gender inclusivity such as implementing quotas for female representation in political offices and decision making roles. Thirdly, mentorship and capacity building programs are essential to empower women with the knowledge, skill and confidence to delve into politics, contest and subsequently lead.

Finally, celebrating and amplifying the achievements of women leaders such as Queen Amina, Queen Magaiya Daura, Queen Moremi, and Queen Idia, Fumilayo Ransome Kuti, Margaret Ekpo amongst others would inspire others and demonstrate that political leadership is attainable for all women.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a woman in politics, and how have you overcome them?

My challenges as an emerging woman in politics are quite unique and somewhat tortuous. The sum of which made me the poster face of the persecution of women in politics in Nigeria. I confronted characters who have scanty regard for law and order. Characters who should not come near the periphery of politics, because they lack the civility to be so close.

First, in 2018, they started with, “Don’t vote for her; she is single and should not be trusted with political office.” That’s even though a bachelor had risen to be Speaker of the House of Representatives and the position of 4th citizen of this nation. I got married, and they turned to, “Her husband is not from Kogi state; thus her loyalty will be doubtful”, and then, “Her mother is a foreigner; she is not Kogi Central and Kogi State enough.”

Their several dog whistles failed, and they resorted to more devilish antics – linking me to the worst crimes committed in Nigeria at the time: in late October 2022, the Kogi State government named me as the sponsor of the Owo Catholic Church attack and the Kute prison break; both incidents happened on the 5th of June and 5th of July 2022 respectively. On these dates, I was away in America, weeks from birthing my son born on the 12th of July 2022.

In a moment, I receive a thousand calls from troubled relations, friends, and well-wishers, expressing their fear for my life and solidarity. My baby was three months old, but I was so traumatised that my breast milk stanched abruptly in 48 hours. That was one of the most emotionaly and mentally torturous moment of my life. Against all odds, thank God I survived. Thank God I won.

What are your thoughts on the current state of politics in Nigeria?

Generally, in Nigeria, immediately after the election and disposal of court cases, politics recedes into governance. Individuals and groups wait for the next four years. Ideal political behavior is still at its evolutionary stage in Nigeria, but I believe systems and processes shall evolve overtime.

How can we improve the political system in Nigeria?

Improving Nigeria’s political systems requires addressing fundamental issues and implementing practical reforms. For starters, we must, as a matter of priority, strengthen our institutions and make them truly independent. We must strengthen electoral processes by using digital voting systems to reduce electoral fraud. Enhancing accountability by deploying anti-corruption measures to governance such as prosecuting public officials found guilty of misconduct. Remember the video of the Adavi Local Government chairman in Kogi state that went around polling units destroying ballot papers on election day, we are still waiting on INEC to prosecute him for destruction of election materials. How do you strengthen institutions? One may ask. It’s simply to enforce public service reforms whereby appointments of public officers would be merit-based thereby improving efficiency and accountability of each and every government office.

Failure to do the aforementioned would only lead to voter apathy with each passing election. This indicates the absence of voter confidence in the umpire – INEC.

On the eve of the 2023 elections, five roads belonging to Kogi State and Federal governments were destroyed by a power drunk individual of a governor and his armed thugs all in a bid to disrupt the 2023 general elections. Yet, INEC had no hesitation in rewarding the man’s cohorts with victory. We must strengthen our institutions to be above the individual if we must make progress in our political system.

What are some of the most pressing issues that Nigeria needs to address?

Undoubtedly, our nation is challenged by issues of insecurity, economic instability, corruption and lack of accountability, weak infrastructure, unemployment and poverty, ethnic and religious tensions, electoral reforms, education crisis, health sector weakness, climate change and environmental degradation amongst others.

Addressing these issues requires political, collaboration between the federal and state government; and active participation of citizens. I dare say that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has set rolling certain strategic reforms which with the 10th National Assembly’s inclusive policies; a stronger economy for a more prosperous Nigeria with be possible.

Nevertheless, I will call on the Economic Team to identify and concentrate more on areas where processing and production can be engendered, at least in all six geopolitical zones. This will catalyse efforts towards industrial utilisation of our agro-products, mass production of line items, exportation and in turn, reduction of unemployment.

You went through a lot of huddles with former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. How were you able to overcome him?

Each time, this question is asked, tears well in me. For that’s one experience I will not wish for anybody, not even my enemy. I look back now and remember the heinous and heartless murder of Mr. Ojo Enesi, the abduction, kidnap, and disappearance of a series of persons, notably, Hon. Musa Adelabu, Ismaila Momoh, Rufai Jimoh, Hadi Abdulmaliki, Mr. Kashim Ismaila, Mr. Monday Idowu, Abdulazeez Salami, the setting ablaze of my grandfather’s house, and the several attempts to murder me each time I went campaigning.

Even though I escaped alive, tens of my supporters sustained gunshot and machete injuries while a large number died. Bullet reddened vehicles, burnt down houses and stores of my supporters, burnt down campaign office while I was in SDP, the physical attack on me during the Peace- Pact signing ceremony in Lokoja, Kogi state in 2019… and the two unexplainable motor accidents that left me with a leg fracture and stitched face. Such evil in the name of politics.

Today, we celebrate our success by the special grace of God. Secondly, by the fairness of Mr. President and the First Lady who refused to interfere in the judicial processes, but rather preferred to allow the law to take its course.

I must also thank my beloved husband High Chief Emmanuel Orisejolomi Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom for unwavering support and steadfastness throughout my campaign and election. You know, I was heavily pregnant during my primaries; my husband went on each and every ward tour with me. At night, he would spend hours massaging my very swollen feet and sore back. He would pray with me and readily avail his shoulders for me to cry my emotional turmoil on. My husband spared nothing at all to ensure my communities in Kogi Central didn’t suffer as much violence from the opposition as it did during the 2019 general elections. My God-sent husband reflects what every woman in politics needs as spousal support and by extension, family.

Given the demanding nature of your job, how do you maintain a work-life balance?

Balancing life as a senator, wife and mother is undoubtedly challenging, but it is a journey I approach with gratitude and purpose. Each role I play–– either as a legislator or a homebuilder–– complements the other, and I draw strength from the love and support of my family.

Time management is key. I prioritise my responsibilities by setting clear boundaries and ensuring I dedicate quality time to both work and family. My husband, Alema’s unwavering support and understanding has been instrumental in helping me balance my domestic and professional roles. Similarly, I involve my children in understanding my work which helps them appreciate the importance of service to others. My 15-year old daughter Nadia is greatly inspired by my activities, and she is shaping her career to become an international lawyer and an advocate for women’s political rights.

To revitalise mind and body, I meditate and practice yoga. Listening to contemporary instrumentals such as Yanni, Secret Garden and zen music soothe my tired mind.

Whenever I am chanced, I read biographies and watch documentaries of people and stories I admire. Finally, I love traveling to new places where I can explore culture and food. My best sceneries are of nature – mountains, lakes, gardens. My husband and I travel mostly together as it accords us opportunity to catch up and bond on lost times.

Being the first female Senator from Kogi State must make you very proud of yourself. What things do you plan on doing differently to bring significant change?

Being the first female senator from Kogi state is both an honour and a profound responsibility. It is a testament to the progress we are making as a society in embracing women in leadership.

This achievement is not just mine but a victory for every woman, every young girl and every dreamer who dares to challenge the status quo.

Oftentimes, I get joked along the lines of “Natasha, every time you speak, a request for Kogi central is made”. I respond by saying “My people risked everything by making me their senator, I owe my all in service to them”.

You see, because I was driven by the intense desire to make a difference and serve my people better through effective representation. I now see myself in the mirror of, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” The massive rollout of infrastructural development, provision of amenities, etc., just within one year in office, is unprecedented. I intend to keep the tempo.

As a first-time Senator and Female in the opposition party, you are the chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content. What are the challenges you face and your vision for local content in Nigeria?

As a first-time senator, a female and a member of the opposition party, I would accredit my success in the chambers so far to the embrace of the entire leadership of the senate, especially the Senate President H.E. Godswill Akpabio, my openhearted colleagues and my beloved husband’s goodwill. Notwithstanding the generosity of the aforementioned fellows, I am very intentional in building relationships across party lines within the National Assembly and beyond. I also never seize to leverage my law background in work preparations and expertise.

Periodic town hall meetings with my constituents help guide my legislative activities and focus, and finally, my efficient team of advisers, researchers, and legislative aides make up my strong support system.

As Chairman Committee on Local Content, my vision is to join forces with the executive arm of government alongside industry players to pave a new frontier for the Nigerian content implementation.

While currently focusing on building in-country capacity in the Oil and Gas sector, the legislators are desirous of expanding the scope of content beyond oil and gas to incorporate other mature industries such as construction, ICT, Telecommunication, Agriculture, Mining, etc. To achieve this, my committee shall systematically focus policy refinement and strategic enforcement, building competitive ecosystems, value chain optimisation and global market integration.

These steps, when properly implemented, will help reposition our local content beyond the context of human capacity building but industry machines and tools manufacturing; thereby servicing not only domestic market but global demands by exports.