Senator Natasha pledges free Wi-Fi for Kogi constituents

In a move that underscores the growing recognition of digital infrastructure's role in economic development, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has committed to bringing free Wi-Fi to strategic locations across her Kogi Central constituency. This pledge, announced via Facebook, signals a proactive approach to empowering the youth and fostering digital innovation in a region where internet access has been a significant barrier.

“

I stood there loving the idea as a necessity to facilitating job creation for our youths. Whilst he spoke, he mentioned installing free Wi-Fi in strategic locations across the Eastern District to support content creators’ internet access.

The inspiration for this initiative stems from a direct suggestion by a new PDP defector, Idris HK, who proposed free internet services to aid content creators and young entrepreneurs. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan embraced the idea, framing it as a "necessity to facilitating job creation for our youths" and promising to replicate it in Kogi Central under the banner of "Kogi Central no dey take last."

This initiative is more than just providing internet access; it's about unlocking potential. By offering cost-free connectivity, the senator aims to expand opportunities for young people engaged in digital entrepreneurship, social media, and content creation. This aligns with a broader national trend in Nigeria, where policymakers are increasingly viewing digital connectivity as a key driver for economic inclusion and youth empowerment. The senator's emphasis on "smart collaboration, not unhealthy competition" among Kogi's senatorial districts also highlights a desire for unified progress.

“

So, in the spirit of collaboration and ‘Kogi Central no dey take last’, here’s me pledging to do the same for our beloved Kogi Central.

From a local perspective in Kogi State, this initiative addresses a critical need. Many young people possess the talent and drive but lack the basic tools to compete in the digital economy. Providing free Wi-Fi can level the playing field, enabling them to access online learning resources, market their skills globally, and participate more fully in the digital age. This contrasts with a purely Western perspective that might see it as just another infrastructure project; for Kogi Central, it represents a tangible pathway to economic upliftment and a bridge across the digital divide.

“

Here’s to forward-thinking leadership. Cheers to smart collaboration, not unhealthy competition amongst the Central, Eastern, and Western districts of Kogi State. Cheers to our great party, the PDP.