Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has defended her decision to provide direct cash assistance to entrepreneurs in Kogi Central, stating that the beneficiaries’ needs informed the choice of monetary grants over the distribution of business equipment.

The explanation comes amid public backlash following the circulation of videos and pictures from the empowerment programme, where substantial amounts of money were handed out to beneficiaries as part of activities marking the senator’s third anniversary in the National Assembly.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, addressed the controversy in a statement released in Abuja through her media aide, Mike Idoko.

The initiative sparked debate across social media platforms, with critics questioning the public display of cash and expressing doubts about whether the intervention could deliver lasting economic benefits to the recipients.

The senator, however, maintained that her experience with previous empowerment schemes informed the decision to adopt a cash-based approach. She explained that some beneficiaries of earlier equipment distributions, particularly sewing machines, had eventually sold the items to meet other business-related expenses, including rent payments and the purchase of additional stock.

She said the latest programme was intended to provide entrepreneurs with the flexibility to channel financial assistance towards their immediate business priorities, whether starting new ventures, expanding existing operations or restocking their shops.

According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, the varying demands of small businesses make direct financial support a viable means of addressing their individual challenges, including the procurement of production materials and the expansion of commercial activities.

In a message commemorating her third year in office, the senator reaffirmed her commitment to supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for economic growth within Kogi Central.

She identified farmers, tailors, content creators and small-scale manufacturers among the beneficiaries, describing the intervention as an effort to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship and sustain local livelihoods.

The programme, held on November 2, 2026, featured cash grants ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦5 million, with the amounts determined by the needs of individual businesses.

Some beneficiaries reportedly received ₦2 million, ₦3 million and ₦4 million, while others were provided with grants of up to ₦5 million through bank transfers.