Nigeria’s 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 State.
Mrs Tinubu, who performed the inauguration and launched the empowerment programme on Thursday, said the initiatives introduced by Governor Monday Okpebholo demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of Edo residents.
She noted that the initiatives would improve transportation, strengthen small businesses and expand economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups in the state.
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“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.
“I commend the Edo Government for introducing these initiatives, an important step towards improving livelihoods and supporting economic growth,” the First Lady said
She explained that the state government was empowering 5,000 beneficiaries with ₦200,000 each to support their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she urged the beneficiaries.
The First Lady subsequently inaugurated the buses and launched the economic empowerment programme.
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo described Tinubu’s visit as a demonstration of care and commitment to the growth and development 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 initiatives addressed two critical needs of the people: affordable transportation and economic empowerment, particularly for women and small-business operators,” Okpebholo explained.
He further noted that 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,” the Governor emphasised.
Okpebholo thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of the state’s development efforts.
“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.
