Senator Sunday Steve Karimi is a distinguished Nigerian politician, engineer, and entrepreneur, currently serving as a senator in the 10th National Assembly of Nigeria, representing Kogi West Senatorial District. Born on March 10, 1962, in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area, Kogi State, Karimi’s life has been shaped by perseverance, commitment, and service to his community and country. His journey from humble beginnings has been marked by a passion for making a difference, especially in addressing the disparities caused by ethnic, social, and economic stratifications.
Karimi’s educational foundation began at ECWA L.E.A. Primary School, Egbe, Kogi State, where he obtained his Primary School Leaving Certificate in June 1974. He proceeded to Titcombe College, Egbe, completing his secondary education with a West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) in 1979. His academic excellence continued as he earned a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Production Engineering, with distinction, from Kwara State College of Technology, Ilorin, in 1983.
After completing his studies, Karimi participated in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, serving as a Mathematics teacher at Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri, Borno State, from August 1983 to July 1984. His early career was marked by a stint in the Nigerian public sector, where he worked as an engineer at the Defense Industries Company of Nigeria Limited (DICON) for nine years. His experience at DICON further honed his technical skills and deepened his understanding of the Nigerian industrial sector.
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Karimi ventured into private business and founded Atlantic Drilling Fluids Services Limited, an indigenous company that has since gained a strong reputation for executing water projects across Nigeria. His success in business enabled him to build a vast network of relationships and provided him the platform to support the development of others in his community.
In 2011, Karimi transitioned into politics and was elected as a Member of the House of Representatives for Yagba Federal Constituency. His performance during his first term was so impactful that he became the first lawmaker in his constituency to be re-elected, serving a second term from 2015 to 2019. His tenure in the House of Representatives was marked by his ability to sponsor several motions and bills that addressed key issues affecting the Nigerian populace, particularly in the areas of education, security, rural development, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment.
Senator Karimi’s leadership has been recognized for his integrity, fairness, and philanthropy. His dedication to his constituents and his strategic approach to national issues won him broad respect, both within his district and beyond. In 2023, he was elected as the senator for Kogi West Senatorial District. The first Senator from Yagba Federal Constituency since the return of democracy in 1999. As Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, Karimi plays a key role in ensuring that the Senate operates efficiently, and his focus remains on promoting the welfare of his constituents.
Karimi’s service is not only rooted in his political office; he has consistently shown a personal commitment to philanthropy and community development. His initiatives have positively impacted the lives of many people in his constituency, fostering growth and providing opportunities, especially in rural areas.
Senator Sunday Steve Karimi is married to Mrs. Stellamaris Karimi, and they are blessed with children. His life remains a reference to the power of determination, public service, and the pursuit of excellence in both personal and professional capacities. His continued work in the Senate aims to uplift his community and contribute meaningfully to the development of Nigeria.
– Adekunle Moses wrote from Isanlu.