Oluremi Tinubu Inaugurates 50 CNG Buses, Launches N1bn Empowerment Programme in Edo

By Rosemary Okoduwa

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday in Benin City inaugurated 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and launched a N1 billion economic empowerment programme targeting 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo State.

The First Lady described the initiatives of Governor Monday Okpebholo as evidence of his commitment to improving the welfare of the people, noting that they would enhance public transportation, strengthen small businesses and expand economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups.

Tinubu, who expressed delight at visiting Edo for the inauguration, said the CNG buses would provide transportation benefits to residents, while the empowerment programme would support beneficiaries in improving their livelihoods and achieving financial independence.

“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.

She commended the state government for introducing the initiatives and urged the beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to utilise the financial support effectively. Under the scheme, 5,000 beneficiaries are expected to receive N200,000 each to support their businesses and other economic activities.

“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” the First Lady said before formally inaugurating the buses and launching the N1 billion empowerment programme.

Earlier, Governor Okpebholo welcomed the First Lady, describing her visit as a demonstration of care, compassion and commitment to the welfare and development of the people of Edo State.

“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 two critical needs of residents: affordable transportation and economic empowerment. He said the CNG buses would make public transportation more accessible, efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly, while the financial support would strengthen small businesses and improve beneficiaries’ economic activities.

Emphasising the importance of empowering women, the governor said such interventions would have a positive impact on families, communities and society at large. “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 to promote good governance, expand economic opportunities and ensure that development reaches every community in Edo State.