Natasha Hadiza Akpoti
Natasha Hadiza Akpoti, a distinguished Nigerian barrister, social entrepreneur, and politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in her quest for positive change and representation. Her notable foray into politics began with her candidacy for the post of Senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 2019 elections, running under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Subsequently, she also contested in the 2019 Kogi State Gubernatorial Election, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving her community and driving meaningful change.
Born on December 9, 1979, Natasha is the daughter of a Nigerian father and a Ukrainian mother, and she is the second of four children. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her father in 1998, Natasha remained resolute in her pursuit of academic excellence and professional achievement. She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Abuja and was called to the Nigerian bar in 2005. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further studies at the University of Dundee, where she obtained a Master of Laws degree in 2012, followed by a Master of Business Administration in Oil & Gas Management from the same institution.
Natasha’s commitment to public service and community development is underscored by her founding of the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP), which aims to drive sustainable development and empowerment initiatives. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and social justice.
Despite facing political challenges, Natasha’s resilience and determination have been evident. Despite stiff competition in the 2023 Kogi Centre Senatorial Elections, she emerged victorious in the PDP primaries, highlighting her widespread support and appeal among constituents. Following a rigorous legal battle, she was rightfully declared the winner of the Kogi Central Senatorial Election, showcasing her steadfast commitment to democratic principles and justice.
Natasha’s triumph is not only a personal victory but also a win for the people she represents. Her dedication to serving her community, coupled with her visionary leadership and unwavering integrity, makes her a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring leaders and change-makers across Nigeria. As a mother of three, Natasha’s passion for creating a better future for the next generation fuels her relentless pursuit of excellence and service to humanity.