A number of lawmakers have kicked against a move by colleagues in the Senate and the House of Representatives to spend N40 billion on Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs).
The lawmakers announced their intention to acquire 107 Toyota Land Cruisers (2023 model) for senators, while lawmakers in the House of Representatives settle for 2023 Toyota Prados.
There are indications that the vehicles which would be acquired for the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker and Deputy Speaker are different from the intended procurement for lawmakers.
Several senators, in conversations with Daily Sun, denied any involvement in these plans, suggesting that the leadership of both chambers should opt for locally-assembled vehicles instead.
Such a move would cut costs and recycle the funds within the country, they argued.
One senator from the South East stated it would be insensitive to purchase an SUV costing over N100 million while local companies are capable of assembling vehicles. He named Innoson Motors, Kia Motors, and Hyundai as possible options.
Another legislator suggested that the National Assembly pause the current plan and allow for more discussions.
He recommended that both chambers pass resolutions prohibiting government appointees at the federal level from purchasing foreign-made vehicles for official use.
If this proposal is implemented, he believes it could encourage major car manufacturers to open facilities in Nigeria and generate jobs for the country’s unemployed youth.