Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Commends Supporter’s Cycling Journey, Emphasises Safety and Youth Development

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Commends Supporter’s Cycling Journey, Emphasises Safety and Youth Development
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‎By Grace Chidimma Ibe
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‎E-ISSN: 2354-4481
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‎Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, on Thursday received a Kogi-born cyclist, Mustapha Shehu, who completed a long-distance bicycle journey from Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State to Abuja in a show of support for her political leadership and prospective re-election bid.
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‎Shehu, who commenced the journey from the Umomi-Ikpokoje community on May 29, arrived at the National Assembly complex on June 4 after spending several days travelling across multiple routes to the Federal Capital Territory.
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‎Speaking shortly after completing the journey, the cyclist said the initiative was a personal expression of appreciation for what he described as the senator’s commitment to effective representation and grassroots development in Kogi Central.
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‎According to him, the bicycle ride was intended to demonstrate support for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s leadership and to encourage continued service to her constituents.
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‎“I embarked on this solidarity bicycle ride from my community in Ofu Local Government Area to Abuja to express my appreciation and support for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This is my personal way of endorsing her for a second term because I believe she has made meaningful contributions to the lives of many people within the district,” he said.
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‎Shehu noted that despite the physical demands of the trip, his conviction and determination enabled him to complete the journey successfully.
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‎“The journey was challenging, but my determination kept me going. I wanted to send a message that many young people appreciate quality representation and are willing to support leaders they believe are working in the public interest,” he added.
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‎Responding to the gesture, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed appreciation for the cyclist’s dedication and goodwill, describing the effort as a remarkable demonstration of commitment and support.
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‎She commended Shehu’s courage and perseverance while emphasising that such sacrifices should never come at the expense of personal safety.
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‎“I sincerely appreciate Mustapha Shehu for this remarkable show of support and goodwill. His determination, courage, and commitment are truly commendable, and I do not take such sacrifices for granted,” the senator stated.
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‎However, Akpoti-Uduaghan cautioned against undertaking similar long-distance road journeys, citing prevailing security concerns across parts of the country.
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‎“While I appreciate the gesture, I must emphasise that I do not encourage anyone to embark on long-distance cycling trips of this nature, especially given the security challenges facing our country. Human life and safety must always remain a priority,” she said.
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‎The senator further encouraged the cyclist to channel his passion and endurance into organised sporting activities by exploring opportunities within recognised cycling associations and sports development programmes.
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‎According to her, Nigeria possesses structured sporting platforms capable of nurturing talented young athletes and transforming their interests into professional careers.
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‎“I encourage Mustapha to explore opportunities within established cycling organisations in Nigeria where his talent, endurance, and passion can be properly developed. There are sporting platforms and cycling associations that can help transform his interest into a meaningful career and sporting achievement,” she added.
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‎The visit concluded with renewed calls for youth engagement in constructive activities, leadership participation, and sports development as pathways to national growth and personal advancement.