First Lady Tinubu Inaugurates 50 CNG Buses, Launches Economic Empowerment in Edo

     Senator Tinubu 4th right), Governor Okpebholo,  (4th left), Senator Adams Oshiomhole (2nd left)      and  others at the ceremony 

Hendrix Oliomogbe 

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

Mrs. Tinubu, who performed the inauguration and launched the empowerment programme, said the initiatives by Governor Monday Okpebholo would improve transportation, strengthen small businesses and promote economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups in the state.

She said she was glad to be back in Edo after 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, describing them as important steps towards improving livelihoods and supporting economic growth.

According to her, the state government empowered 5,000 beneficiaries with N200,000 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.

The governor  explained that 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.

He added: "When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society.”

At the ceremony which witnessed the presence of former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Minister of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and a host of others, Senator Okpebholo commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support, pledging continued loyalty to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He said his administration is 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,” he added.