From Tony Osauzo and Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has inaugurated 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and launched a ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme for 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo.
Performing the inauguration and the launch of the empowerment programme in Benin City, the First Lady said both initiatives of Governor Monday Okpebholo demonstrated his love for the people of Edo.
She said the initiatives would improve transportation, strengthen small businesses and promote economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups in the state.
“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 commended the Edo Government for introducing the initiatives, describing them as important steps towards improving livelihoods and supporting economic growth.
She said the state government was empowering 5,000 beneficiaries with ₦200,000 each to strengthen their livelihoods, support small businesses and promote financial independence.
“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 ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme for the beneficiaries.
Earlier, Governor Monday Okpebholo welcomed the First Lady, describing her visit as a demonstration of care, compassion and commitment to the welfare of the 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,” he said.
Okpebholo said the initiatives addressed two critical needs of the people: affordable transportation and economic empowerment, particularly for women and small-business operators.
He said the CNG buses would make public transportation more accessible, affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly, while the empowerment programme would strengthen beneficiaries’ economic activities.
“When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society,” he said.
Okpebholo also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support, pledging continued loyalty to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He said his administration remained committed to building an Edo where good governance, economic opportunities and development would reach every community.
“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,” the governor added.