Edo to Launch Mini-Bus Empowerment Scheme to create jobs, Boost Mobility
Inside Edo
Benin, Edo – The Edo State government has introduced a structured vehicle distribution and instalment-purchase programme for commercial mini-buses, aimed at improving public transport while turning experienced drivers into independent business owners.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Special Adviser on Public Affairs and Media, Hon. Haruna Braimoh, the dual-purpose initiative forms a key part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s broader efforts to revitalise the state’s transportation sector.
The scheme is designed to ease public mobility by expanding the fleet of commercial mini-buses available for intra-state travel.
At the same time, it empowers drivers, many of whom have long experience in the sector to transition from hired operators into vehicle owners and independent business operators.
Officials say this will create direct jobs and sustainable livelihood opportunities across the state.
The empowerment programme sits alongside other transport interventions highlighted, which include the revival of the long-dormant Edo Line with modern luxury buses linking Benin City to destinations such as Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Warri, Port Harcourt and Kaduna, as well as the introduction of a new fleet of “Akpako” luxury commercial buses.
Complementary road rehabilitation works on major corridors, including the Benin–Ekpoma–Auchi highway and Sapele Road, are also under way to reduce congestion and support smoother passenger and cargo movement.
The administration framed the overall approach as that of a government focused on enabling the private sector rather than competing with it, catalysing investment where market gaps exist in order to drive sustainable development, job creation and economic stability.
Edo State, positioned as a commercial gateway linking Nigeria’s South-West, South-East and Northern regions, stands to benefit from improved transport reliability and expanded economic opportunities for operators under the new framework.
