Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday inaugurated 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and launched a ₦1 billion economic empowerment scheme for 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo State, with each recipient expected to receive ₦200,000 to support their businesses and livelihoods.
The initiatives, unveiled in Benin City, are aimed at improving public transportation, supporting small businesses and expanding economic opportunities for women, youths and other vulnerable groups across the state.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what she described as practical interventions demonstrating his administration’s commitment to the welfare 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.
Tinubu said the empowerment scheme would provide ₦200,000 each to 5,000 beneficiaries to strengthen their businesses, improve their livelihoods and promote financial independence.
“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she added.
She subsequently inaugurated the 50 CNG buses and formally launched the economic empowerment programme.
Earlier, Governor Okpebholo welcomed the First Lady, describing her visit as a demonstration of care, compassion and commitment to the development and welfare of Edo people.
“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 explained that the initiatives were designed to address critical needs, particularly access to affordable transportation and financial support for small-business operators.
He said the CNG buses would make public transportation more accessible, affordable and efficient while providing a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
The governor added that the ₦1 billion empowerment scheme would support beneficiaries, particularly women and entrepreneurs, whose businesses require financial assistance to grow.
“When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society,” he said.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-oriented programmes and ensuring that the benefits of governance reach communities across the state.
He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support, pledging continued loyalty to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor said his administration remained focused on building an Edo State where good governance, economic opportunities and development would be accessible to all residents.
“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,” he added.
The inauguration of the 50 CNG buses and the launch of the ₦1 billion empowerment scheme mark interventions by the Okpebholo administration aimed at improving transportation, supporting small businesses and promoting economic opportunities across Edo State.