Why we prefer imported SUVs to Nigerian-made models – Senator Karimi

Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed acquisition of luxury vehicles by federal lawmakers, Sunday Karimi, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Services, has clarified that members of the Senate and the House of Representatives have opted for foreign-made Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) such as Land Cruisers and Prados due to their recognized “quality and durability.”

Karimi, who represents Kogi West Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, shared his perspective during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Wednesday.

When questioned about why lawmakers don’t consider locally made vehicles, he explained, “Today, we decided for Toyota because Toyota has a name and a longstanding name for quality and durability… As our local manufacturing companies develop, we are going to patronize them.”

Karimi emphasized that federal lawmakers require these vehicles for oversight activities and to travel throughout their constituencies.

He also pointed out that the purchase of utility vehicles is not against the law, particularly considering the challenging condition of Nigerian roads. He noted, “If you look at Nigerian roads all over the Federation, we have a serious problem because nothing much has been done in the last years. Most of our roads are terribly bad.”

Regarding the choice of foreign-made vehicles, Karimi expressed the intent to support Nigerian manufacturing as it develops in the future.