Senator Karimi explained that they opted for a foreign car brand instead of a Nigerian-made one due to its established reputation for quality and longevity

In the midst of the controversy surrounding the proposed acquisition of foreign luxury vehicles by federal lawmakers, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Services, Sunday Karimi, has clarified the reasons behind their choice of foreign car brands over Nigerian-made cars.

During an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, October 25, Karimi explained that they opted for foreign-made Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) from the Toyota brand, specifically Land Cruisers and Prados, due to their renowned “quality and durability.”

Karimi, who represents the Kogi West Senatorial District, elaborated, stating, “Today, we decided on Toyota because Toyota has an established reputation for quality and durability. As our local manufacturing companies develop, we intend to support them. We require these vehicles for oversight duties and traveling throughout our constituencies.”

He further highlighted the dire condition of Nigerian roads across the Federation, emphasizing, “If you look at Nigerian roads all over the country, we have a significant problem due to the lack of substantial maintenance in recent years. Most of our roads are in deplorable condition.”

Karimi concluded by expressing the Senate’s intent to support the Nigerian manufacturing sector in the future, indicating a willingness to patronize domestically-produced vehicles as the industry grows.