First Lady's Grand Relief: 50 CNG Buses and N1 Billion Fund for Edo Women Unveiled

Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has spearheaded significant economic reforms in Edo State by inaugurating 50 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses and unveiling a N1 billion empowerment fund for 5,000 women. These initiatives are strategically designed to alleviate the economic strain caused by the removal of fuel subsidies, with a focus on reducing transportation costs, bolstering women-owned businesses, and enhancing access to economic opportunities for citizens.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the First Lady underscored President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to mitigating the adverse effects of subsidy removal through various interventions aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians. She highlighted the critical role of affordable transportation in the daily lives of students, traders, workers, and other commuters, presenting the CNG buses as a vital alternative amidst escalating transport costs. Mrs. Tinubu articulated a vision of 'renewed hope,' stating, "Behind every bus is a human story. There is a student who needs to get to school. There is a trader who needs to get to the market. There is a civil servant going to work. That is why today’s event is a story of renewed hope."

Furthermore, the First Lady emphasized the burgeoning employment opportunities within the CNG sector. She urged the Edo State Government to proactively invest in technical training programs for young people, preparing them for diverse roles such as technicians, engineers, drivers, mechanics, and fleet managers for the new CNG buses. The N1 billion empowerment fund, specifically allocated to support 5,000 women, is expected to strengthen small businesses, elevate household incomes, and significantly expand women’s economic participation at the grassroots level.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, joined by his Kogi State counterpart, Ahmed Usman Ododo, commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms. Governor Okpebholo pledged his administration's commitment to sustaining programs that directly address the needs of residents, specifically noting that the new buses would substantially reduce transportation costs and ease commuters' burdens. He also reaffirmed his administration’s steadfast support for the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Dr. Betta Edu, Director of Women Mobilisation of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, also praised President Tinubu and the First Lady for their timely interventions. Dr. Edu lauded the CNG buses as a practical solution to ease commuter burdens and generate employment, while describing the N1 billion empowerment fund as a crucial opportunity to fortify women-owned businesses, enhance household incomes, and broaden economic prospects. She reiterated the Directorate’s dedication to mobilizing women across all 774 local government areas in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

During a visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, the First Lady highlighted key interventions under the Renewed Hope Initiative and acknowledged the monarch’s significant contributions to Edo State and the nation. The ultimate success and tangible impact of these initiatives, including accessible bus services and improved livelihoods for beneficiaries, will hinge on meticulous and effective implementation.