Daily Independent (Lagos)
18 October 2008
The romance by automobile dealers with banks that now offer various credit schemes aimed at making the dream of ownership of brand new low-budget cars a reality in Nigeria seems poised to affect the flourishing fairly used auto (Tokunbo) trade. But how far would the deal go?
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This is a good move in our dear country Nigeria. It is really a divine healing from our God above to us - Nigerians. A 60 second drive out of the dealer's lot, irrespective of the chosen brand and make turns the so called new old. Because, cars depreciate value. So, I hope in the meantime such opportunity to finance New Cars will be avail to all Nigerians interested in Tokunbos'. A smart way to save and start life anew free from parent’s dependence also requires learning to be responsible in one's little way in a growing society such as ours. For instance, "AIT or This Day" decides to upgrade 10 of her fleets after 5 years. Who and where is the audience that is expected to pick up her old cars? Which, also is a revenue to "AIT or This Day" in bring down the payment of her new cars. Secondly, if you have an old car from either of these make: Toyota, Nissan and Honda. Please, safe your breathe from buying brand new China, be responsible to keep a good driving habit, and follow the 3 to 6 months regular maintenance in the auto maker's manual. Then, our Government does their part of providing good roads. I tell you the truth; you have won a gold medal for yourself. Hip! Hip!! Hurray!!! The answer to the above question might surprise us all. Nigerians living in Niaja certainly will. So, let's stop the idea of opening new doors and shutting down the other. It is a foolish mind's game. Rome, they say, "it was not build in a day or better still, all hands are equal - mine is not." Nigerians should not be exceptional to societal transformation. We need Economic growth in all facets of Nigeria's Society and stop quoting United States out of context. America pays Social Security to her Seniors age 65 years and above, disable and unemployment benefits to her citizens. Do not push me to ask Mr. Yar'dua, about my Dad's Federal pension being withheld to eternity- the only benefits Nigerians receives is constantly being denial by her government. Nigeria, wake up, turn a new leaf, embrace change, and extinguished xenophobia. Kesilo. Los Angeles, CA 90009.