Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan: The Poster Girl Of 2025 International Women’s Day

ISAAC ASABOR

In a world where resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice define true leadership, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan stands tall as an emblem of hope, strength, and inspiration. As the world marks International Women’s Day, today being March 8, 2025, it is only fitting to celebrate her as the Star Girl of the year, an honor that recognizes her indelible contributions to Nigerian politics, human rights activism, and the tireless pursuit of justice.

Aptly described, Natasha is unarguably a trailblazer in law and activism. Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Born into a multicultural background with a Nigerian father and a Ukrainian mother, her upbringing exposed her to diverse perspectives that would later shape her worldview. She pursued a career in law, where she quickly distinguished herself as a fierce advocate for justice, particularly in matters concerning women, the marginalized, and the oppressed.

Her early career saw her championing the rights of local communities, particularly in her home state of Kogi, where she took a bold stance against economic and political injustices. She founded the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program, a social enterprise dedicated to promoting local manufacturing and industrialisation in Nigeria. Her advocacy for the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company remains one of her most defining fights, as she pushed for the resuscitation of what was once Africa’s largest steel complex, a battle that pitted her against entrenched interests in both the private and public sectors.

Without a doubt, she is a political force to reckon with. Not content with being a voice from the sidelines, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ventured into politics, knowing full well the barriers that women in Nigeria face in the political arena. She first ran for the governorship of Kogi State in 2019 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where she emerged as a formidable force despite facing an onslaught of opposition from the dominant political class. Her courage and tenacity earned her nationwide admiration, and though she did not clinch victory, she set a precedent for other women aspiring to break into the male-dominated political space.

In 2023, she contested for the Kogi Central Senatorial seat under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and won, despite strong opposition and numerous hurdles placed in her path. Her victory was a triumph not just for her, but for all Nigerian women aspiring for political leadership. It was a resounding statement that women, too, can lead and influence policy at the highest levels.

Looking at her from the vantage point of the ongoing battle with Akpabio and the Senate, it is germane to opine that since assuming office as a senator that she has remained true to her ideals, fearless, outspoken, and unapologetic in her quest for transparency and justice. However, her insistence on due process and good governance has not come without resistance, particularly from the leadership of the Senate under Godswill Akpabio.

Her tenure has been marred by fierce clashes with Akpabio and the Senate establishment, as she continues to call out impunity, and the marginalization of her constituents. Despite attempts to silence her, she remains undeterred, wielding her influence to push for pro-people policies and demand accountability from those in power. However, the ongoing battle which she is fighting with Akpabio, and some members of the Senate who are no doubt Akpabio’s sympathizers is reminiscent of the many struggles that have defined her career, and it would sure proof that she is not one to back down in the face of adversity.

Her boldness has earned her both admiration and opposition. While many see her as a beacon of hope in Nigerian politics, others, particularly the old guards, view her as a threat to the status quo. But Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is undaunted, knowing that her mission is greater than personal ambition, it is about ensuring that democracy works for the people, especially the marginalized women in politics, who are also underrepresented.

Without a doubt, Natasha has through her ongoing fight become a symbol of hope for women and the oppressed.  Not only that, her journey in law, activism, and politics has made her a symbol of hope for women across Nigeria and beyond. Her courage in standing up to powerful political figures, her determination to fight for the voiceless, and her ability to rise above persecution make her a true role model for young girls who aspire to break barriers.

In fact, her advocacy extends beyond politics; she has been instrumental in pushing for policies that address gender inequality, economic empowerment for women, and the protection of human rights. Through her numerous initiatives, she has provided scholarships, mentorship programs, and economic support for young girls and women, ensuring that they have access to opportunities that many in previous generations were denied.

Projecting into the future and her unwavering commitment to justice, it is not an exaggeration to opine that as the world celebrates International Women’s Day in 2025, that she stands as a beacon of what is possible when resilience meets purpose. Her story is not just about political ambition; it is about a deep-seated belief that Nigeria can be better and that its people deserve leaders who serve with integrity.

Looking ahead, it is clear that her journey is far from over. Whether in the Senate, in advocacy, or in any other sphere of influence, Natasha will continue to be a force to reckon with, a voice for the people, a champion for justice, and an icon of women’s empowerment.

As this writer honor her as the Poster Girl of 2025 International Women’s Day, let us celebrate not just her achievements, but also the struggles she has endured, the battles she has fought, and the lives she has touched. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not just a politician; she is a movement, one that embodies the hope, courage, and resilience of every woman striving for a better world.