First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday, 1 October inaugurated 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and launched a ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme for 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo State.
The initiatives, introduced by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, are designed to improve public transportation, support small businesses and expand economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable residents across the state.
Speaking at the ceremony in Benin City, Tinubu commended the governor for the initiatives, describing them as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the welfare and economic advancement of Edo residents.
“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 expected to receive ₦200,000 each to support their businesses, improve their livelihoods and promote financial independence.
The First Lady urged the beneficiaries to utilise the funds productively to expand their businesses and improve their economic circumstances.
“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she said.
Tinubu subsequently inaugurated the 50 CNG buses and formally launched the economic empowerment scheme.
Earlier, Governor Okpebholo described the First Lady’s visit as a demonstration of concern for the welfare of Edo residents, noting that the two initiatives addressed critical needs in the state: 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 introduction of the CNG buses would make public transportation more accessible, affordable and efficient, while providing an environmentally friendlier alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
He added that the ₦1 billion empowerment programme would enable beneficiaries to 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 sustain efforts to implement policies and projects aimed at extending development and economic opportunities to communities 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.