Petrol Subsidy Palliative: Oluremi Tinubu Inaugurates 50 CNG Buses in Edo
50 CNG Buses bought by Edo State
By Correspondent
The First Lady, Senator 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 as part of initiatives by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ease transportation costs and improve livelihoods following the removal of the petrol subsidy.
Mrs Tinubu performed the inauguration and launched the empowerment scheme on Thursday in Benin City, commending Governor Monday Okpebholo for introducing the initiatives to improve the welfare of residents and stimulate economic growth.
The First Lady said the two initiatives reflected the governor’s commitment to the people, noting that they would make transportation more affordable, strengthen small businesses and expand economic opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups.
“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 in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
She praised the state government for prioritising programmes designed to improve living conditions and support economic development.
Under the empowerment programme, 5,000 beneficiaries are to receive ₦200,000 each to strengthen their businesses, improve their livelihoods and promote financial independence.
Mrs Tinubu expressed optimism that the financial support would help beneficiaries expand their businesses and achieve sustainable growth.
“I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she said.
Earlier, Governor Okpebholo welcomed the First Lady, describing her visit as a demonstration of care, compassion and commitment to the welfare of Edo residents.
“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 governor said.
He explained that the inauguration of the CNG buses and the launch of the empowerment scheme were designed to address two major concerns of residents: access to affordable public transportation and economic empowerment.
According to him, the buses would make public transportation more accessible, affordable and efficient, while offering an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional petrol-powered transport.
He added that the ₦1 billion empowerment programme would strengthen the economic activities of beneficiaries, particularly women and small-business operators, by providing financial assistance to support their enterprises.
“When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society,” Okpebholo said.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support, reaffirming his commitment to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He said his administration was determined to build an Edo State where good governance translates into tangible benefits for residents, economic opportunities reach every citizen and development extends to all communities.
Okpebholo added that his government would continue to pursue policies and programmes aimed at improving living standards, expanding economic opportunities and ensuring that no community was left behind.
