By DADA AYOKHAI
The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday in Benin City commissioned 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses procured by the Edo State Government to improve public transportation in the state.
Senator Tinubu said the initiative would improve transportation, strengthen small businesses and promote economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups in the state.
She also launched a N1 billion economic empowerment programme for 5,000 beneficiaries in the state, with each beneficiary receiving N200,000 to strengthen their livelihoods, support small businesses and promote financial independence.
Describing both initiatives of Governor Monday Okpebholo as important steps towards improving livelihoods and supporting economic growth, she noted that they demonstrated his love for the people of Edo.
”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.
”I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she added.
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.
The governor 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,” he added.
First Lady Commissions 50 CNG Buses, Flags Off N1bn Empowerment for 5,000 Women in Edo
