Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was in Benin City on Thursday to inaugurate two major people-focused projects initiated by the Edo State Government. The projects include the rollout of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses and the official launch of a ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme designed to support vulnerable residents across the state.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Garrick Memorial Field, the First Lady commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for prioritizing the welfare of Edo people. She described the CNG buses as more than just a transport intervention, noting that they represent opportunity, mobility and hope for everyday citizens. According to her, the buses will ease commuting for students, market women, civil servants and artisans while offering a cheaper and cleaner alternative to petrol-powered vehicles.
The First Lady also noted that the shift to CNG aligns with the Federal Government’s push for alternative energy and will open up new employment opportunities. She explained that the initiative will create jobs for drivers, mechanics, technicians, engineers, fleet managers and safety officers, and urged the state to invest in training young people to take advantage of the emerging value chain.
On the empowerment scheme, Senator Tinubu disclosed that 5,000 beneficiaries, largely women, youths and small business owners, will each receive ₦200,000 to boost their trades and livelihoods. She prayed that the grants would prosper in the hands of the beneficiaries and help them achieve financial independence. The event was attended by over a dozen wives of state governors, federal officials, and top Edo stakeholders.
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo said the two initiatives address the most pressing needs of the people: affordable transportation and economic support. He thanked the First Lady for her visit, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and commitment to the development of Edo State, and credited President Bola Tinubu’s reforms for giving states more capacity to execute people-oriented projects.
Edo Boost: Remi Tinubu Unveils 50 CNG Buses, Flags Off ₦1bn Empowerment Grant For 5,000 Women
