Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has defended her decision to publicly distribute millions of naira in cash to constituents during an empowerment programme in Kogi constituency. She recently had her say via a press statement shared by her media aide, Mike Idoko, and Nigerians have been reacting.
Stressing that the intervention was informed by beneficiaries’ preference for direct financial assistance over business equipment, Natasha stated that previous empowerment exercises have shown that some beneficiaries prefer cash because of immediate business needs.
Akpoti added that entrepreneurs have different operational realities, making direct cash assistance a practical option for addressing challenges.
Her words, “I have given out sewing machines to many, and at the end of the day, I realised they sold them to either boost their businesses or pay rent.
So I have decided to give cash to those who requested support to start a business or add more stock. There are also those who will get ₦5m through transfer.
We rounded off our third anniversary in office by supporting small businesses across Kogi Central with cash grants.
From farmers and tailors to content creators and small-scale manufacturers, these entrepreneurs are building livelihoods and strengthening our local economy.
Thus, I’m grateful to God and honoured to support local businesses with the financial assistance they need to grow.”
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