‘How Sen. Sunday Karimi championed agric reform, oil sector accountability, banking transparency’
Sen. Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has gained recognition for his active role in addressing critical national issues through legislative reform.
Karimi’s work spans key sectors such as agriculture, oil and gas, and banking, all aimed at promoting economic development, transparency, and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
This was highlighted by a political activist Eleta Oluseyi Kelvin on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.
Agricultural Development Initiatives
As agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, Senator Karimi has spearheaded several legislative reforms to revitalize the sector.
In addition, Karimi introduced the National Fertilizer Quality Control Bill 2023, which aims to regulate the production and distribution of fertilizers.
This ensures that farmers receive high-quality inputs, leading to increased productivity and higher yields, tackling the recurring issue of low agricultural output in the country.
Another significant contribution is the Livestock Development and Management Bill 2023, focusing on modernizing the livestock industry.
The bill promotes livestock production, processing, and marketing, which is crucial for rural economies.
This legislation aims to increase income for livestock farmers and ensure the availability of quality animal products.
Moreover, Karimi’s Agricultural Insurance Commission (Establishment) Bill 2023 seeks to create an insurance commission to protect farmers against risks like climate change, pests, and other unforeseen disasters.
This legislation is essential in preventing farmers from facing financial ruin due to circumstances beyond their control.
Ensuring Oil Sector Accountability
Senator Karimi has also been vocal in addressing inefficiencies within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. His motion to probe the N11.35 trillion spent on refinery maintenance between 2010 and 2024 shed light on the staggering costs associated with maintaining non-functional refineries.
Karimi emphasized that despite these expenditures, the refineries remain largely unproductive, calling for greater accountability and transparency in managing public funds. His efforts seek to ensure that future investments in the oil sector deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.
In addition, Karimi has sponsored several bills aimed at improving the regulation and management of Nigeria’s oil resources. These legislative efforts are focused on promoting transparency and ensuring that the wealth generated from the country’s natural resources is used to benefit all citizens.
Reforming Nigeria’s banking sector
In the financial sector, Senator Karimi has pushed for reforms to improve the transparency and accountability of Nigeria’s banking system.
His proposed amendments to the Central Bank (Establishment) Act 2007 include criminalizing the use of foreign currency in domestic transactions, restricting Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governors from engaging in partisan politics, and restructuring the CBN board to include representatives from key financial institutions.
These reforms aim to strengthen the management of Nigeria’s monetary policy and foster greater accountability in the banking sector.
A vision for nigeria’s future
Through his legislative initiatives, Senator Sunday Karimi demonstrates his commitment to addressing Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
Whether reforming agricultural policy, pushing for transparency in oil sector spending, or advocating for banking reforms, Karimi’s work in the Senate reflects his broader vision for a well-governed and prosperous Nigeria.
