Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan (born December 9, 1979) is a dynamic Nigerian lawyer, social entrepreneur, and politician renowned for her fierce advocacy, trailblazing leadership, and commitment to economic and gender equity.


Early Life & Background

Mixed heritage: Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, to a Nigerian father, Dr. Jimoh Abdul Akpoti from Kogi, and a Ukrainian mother, Ludmila Kravchenko. She's the only daughter among four children and was deeply influenced by her father's philanthropic spirit—treating the poor, funding education, and supporting local businesses, which she says taught her that *“helping the poor should hurt”*.

Local upbringing: Grew up across Kogi communities (Ihima, Okehi, Ajaokuta, Adavi), where she experienced being called “Oyinbo pepper” for her light complexion—a moment she says shaped her sense of identity and purpose.


Education & Early Career

Primary & Secondary: Attended Christ the King Primary School, Okene; then Government Girls Unity Secondary, Oboroke; and Federal Government College, Idoani (graduating 1997). She was social prefect and later head girl, known for her leadership and diligence.

Tertiary: LL.B. from University of Abuja (2000–2004); called to the bar in 2005.

Postgraduate: LL.M. and MBA (Oil & Gas Management) from University of Dundee (2011–12.

Legal career: Served as a legal counsel at Brass LNG (2007–2010).


Social Entrepreneurship & Advocacy


Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP): Founded in 2015 to promote job creation through revitalizing Nigeria’s indigenous industries.

Ajaokuta Steel Mill crusade: In 2018, exposed corruption and mismanagement in the Ajaokuta Steel Mill to the National Assembly—winning the Nigerian Society of Engineers’ Presidential Award in 2017 for her contribution.


Political Journey 

* 2019: Entered politics via the SDP—contested for Kogi Central Senate seat and later ran for governor.

* 2023 Election & Court Win: Ran under PDP for Kogi Central. Initially lost but successfully appealed, and was sworn in as the first elected female senator from Kogi State in November 2023.

* Focus as senator: Advocates for industrial revival, women rights, youth empowerment, infrastructure, healthcare, and safety—her initiatives include lighting 30 km of roads, rehabilitating police and health facilities.


Awards & Recognition

* African Women Leadership Award by Jewel Taylor (Liberia)

* “Politician of the Year” – Leadership Excellence Awards 2023

* ThisDay Senator of the Year 2025.

 

Controversies & Advocacy for Justice

 Accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment stemming from a December 2023 encounter; he denied allegations.

 Suspended from Senate for six months in March 2025 over “misconduct” and procedural issues—sparking widespread protests under “We are all Natasha” and condemnation from women’s and civil society groups.

In July 2025, a court ruled the suspension excessive and reinstated her ([Wikipedia][2]).

Personal Life

* Married Emmanuel Uduaghan (the Alema of Warri Kingdom) on March 5, 2022.

* Mother of three children—Saadia and Daniel from a previous marriage, and Reign-Emmanuel with her current husband.

* Converted to Islam in 2019, engaging actively with both Christian and Muslim communities.

Legacy & Influence

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan stands as a bold example of female leadership in Nigeria—marking history as Kogi’s first elected female senator. She stands at the intersection of advocacy, governance, and social justice. Her efforts to revitalize industry, spotlight corruption, and challenge gender norms continue to inspire a burgeoning movement among young Nigerians—particularly women—demanding transparency, equality, and reform.