First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday inaugurated 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and launched a ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme targeting 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo State.
The two initiatives, introduced by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, are aimed at improving public transportation, strengthening small businesses and expanding economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable residents.
Speaking at the ceremony in Benin City, the First Lady commended the governor for the initiatives, describing them as evidence of his commitment to the welfare and economic advancement of Edo people.
“I am glad to be in Edo today after quite a long time for the commissioning of 50 compressed natural gas buses for the benefit of the people,” she said.
Under the empowerment programme, 5,000 beneficiaries are to receive ₦200,000 each to support their businesses, improve their livelihoods and promote financial independence.
Tinubu urged the beneficiaries to make productive use of the funds to grow their businesses and improve their economic circumstances.
“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she said.
She subsequently inaugurated the 50 CNG buses and formally launched the empowerment scheme.
Earlier, Governor Okpebholo described the First Lady’s visit as a demonstration of concern for the welfare of Edo residents, insisting that the initiatives addressed two pressing needs: affordable transportation and economic empowerment.
“Your visit is not just a ceremonial engagement. It is a demonstration of care, compassion and our commitment to the growth of our people,” the governor said.
Okpebholo said the CNG buses would make public transportation more accessible, affordable and efficient, while offering an environmentally friendlier alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
He added that the ₦1 billion empowerment programme would help beneficiaries strengthen their businesses and expand their income-generating activities.
“When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society,” he said.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support, reaffirming his loyalty to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He pledged that his administration would continue pursuing policies and projects designed to extend development and economic opportunities across Edo State.
“Our commitment is to build an Edo State where good governance is felt in every home, opportunities are within the reach of every citizen, and no community is left behind,” Okpebholo added.
