Mirian Gom 
EDO, Nigeria – Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has inaugurated 50 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses and launched a ₦1 billion economic empowerment programme targeting 5,000 beneficiaries in Edo State.
Tinubu performed the inauguration and launched the programme in Benin City on Thursday, describing the initiatives as evidence of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities.
The empowerment programme will provide ₦200,000 to each of the 5,000 beneficiaries to support small businesses, strengthen household incomes and promote financial independence. “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, according to a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.
The First Lady commended the state government for introducing the transportation and empowerment initiatives, saying they could support economic growth and improve opportunities for women, young people and vulnerable groups. “I pray that the monies received will prosper in your hands and grow your businesses,” she added.
Earlier, Okpebholo welcomed Tinubu and described her visit as a demonstration of concern for the welfare and development 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,” he said.
The governor said the initiatives addressed two important needs in the state: access to affordable transportation and financial support for people seeking to grow their businesses.
He said the CNG buses were intended to make public transport more accessible, affordable and efficient while offering an alternative to conventional petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles.
The use of compressed natural gas can reduce certain vehicle emissions compared with conventional fuels, although the environmental benefits depend on factors including vehicle technology, fuel production and operating conditions.
Okpebholo said the empowerment programme would support beneficiaries’ economic activities, particularly women and small-business operators. “When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family, uplift a community and contribute to the prosperity of society,” he said.
He said his administration remained committed to expanding economic opportunities, improving governance and ensuring development reached communities across Edo State. The two initiatives represent a combined public commitment of ₦1 billion in direct empowerment funding alongside the introduction of 50 CNG buses.
However, the statement did not specify the buses’ routes, fares, operational start date or the criteria for selecting the 5,000 beneficiaries.
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Hope Ajayi 
