Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan has emerged as a significant figure in Nigerian politics, known for her dedication to social justice, economic development, and gender equality. Her journey from a legal practitioner to a senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District is marked by resilience, advocacy, and a commitment to transformative change.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 9, 1979, in Ilorin, Kwara State, Natasha is the second of four children to Dr. Jimoh Abdul Akpoti, a Nigerian from Kogi State, and Ludmila Kravchenko, a Ukrainian from Rakitna, Chernivtsi. Her early education took place at Christ the King School in Okene, Kogi State, followed by secondary education at Federal Government College, Idoani, Ondo State, where she graduated in 1997. Following her father’s death in 1998, her family relocated to Abuja. She pursued a Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Abuja from 2000 to 2004 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005. Furthering her education, Natasha obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Oil and Gas Management from the University of Dundee, Scotland, in 2011 and 2012, respectively.
Legal and Entrepreneurial Career
Natasha began her legal career as a counsel at Brass LNG from 2007 to 2010. In 2015, she founded the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP), focusing on promoting local content and economic development in Nigeria. Her investigative report on the Ajaokuta Steel Mill, presented to the National Assembly in March 2018, exposed corruption and mismanagement, bringing her national recognition. This advocacy earned her the Special Presidential Award from the Nigerian Society of Engineers in December 2017.
Political Journey
Natasha’s political aspirations became evident in 2018 when she contested for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Although unsuccessful, her campaign emphasized economic development, youth empowerment, and social justice, inspiring many, especially women and youth, to engage in politics. In 2019, she ran for the governorship of Kogi State under the SDP, further establishing her as a formidable force in the political landscape.
In the 2023 general elections, Natasha contested again for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat, this time under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Initially losing to Abubakar Sadiku Ohere of the All Progressives Congress (APC), she challenged the election results. The Court of Appeal in Abuja declared her the rightful winner, leading to her swearing-in as the first female senator from Kogi State in November 2023.
Legislative Achievements and Advocacy
As a senator, Natasha has been a vocal advocate for gender equality and social justice. She has championed bills addressing gender-based violence, workplace inequality, and cultural practices that marginalize women. Her efforts in advancing the Gender Equality and Opportunities Bill underscore her commitment to ensuring women have equal access to education, employment, and political participation.
In infrastructure, she has made significant contributions, including lighting 30 kilometers of roads across Kogi Central to enhance safety. She also reconstructed the Ihima Police Station and initiated the rehabilitation of primary health centers in Ohueta and Osara, demonstrating her dedication to improving her constituents’ quality of life.
Controversies and Challenges
In March 2025, Natasha accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. The Senate’s ethics committee dismissed her claims, citing procedural violations, and subsequently suspended her for six months due to alleged disciplinary breaches. This suspension sparked nationwide protests under the banner “We are all Natasha,” highlighting the challenges women face in Nigerian politics.
Awards and Recognition
Natasha’s dedication has earned her several accolades, including the African Women Leadership Award and the “Politician of the Year” at the 2023 Leadership Excellence Awards. In 2025, she received the This Day Senator of the Year award, reflecting her impactful contributions to Nigerian politics.
Personal Life
Natasha is married to Emmanuel Uduaghan, with their union celebrated in March 2022. She is a mother of three, balancing her family life with her demanding political career.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s journey reflects her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and development. Her resilience in the face of challenges and her dedication to her constituents continue to inspire many, solidifying her position as a transformative figure in Nigerian politics.
