The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, has unveiled her new official vehicle a Nord Demir assembled at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) assembly plant. The move is a strategic decision to champion local industry, create jobs, and support education, while showcasing Nigeria’s capacity to produce world-class solutions.
In a statement released by UNILAG on Friday, Dr. Oduwole, a proud alumna of the university’s Faculty of Law, described her choice of the locally assembled vehicle as a “homecoming of purpose.”
“This car is more than a mode of transport; it is a symbol of faith in Nigeria,” said Dr. Oduwole. “I chose UNILAG because this partnership boosts local industry, creates jobs, supports education, and proves that our institutions can deliver world-class innovation. I will drive it with pride in Abuja and on official engagements.”
The Minister’s decision is aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes industrialization and economic stability. Dr. Oduwole emphasized that the car choice reflects a commitment to the Nigeria-First Initiative, reinforcing the government’s push to promote research, encourage innovation, and inspire young Nigerians to build solutions that have global impact.
Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Prof. Bola Oboh, commended the Minister for her historic decision, noting the symbolism of a UNILAG graduate and former lecturer now advocating for locally made solutions.
“This is not just a milestone; it is an inspiration,” said Prof. Oboh. “One of our own, who once studied and taught here, has returned as a Minister to receive a vehicle assembled by UNILAG students. This sends a strong message that with knowledge and innovation, Nigerians can achieve greatness.”
The Minister was also given a tour of the Nord Automobile facilities at UNILAG, where she visited the assembly line, research and development units, and showroom. Since its establishment in 2022, the UNILAG-Nord partnership has been Africa’s first university-based automobile assembly plant, producing vehicles and offering cross-disciplinary internship opportunities for students in automobile manufacturing, electric vehicles, and drone assembly.
UNILAG’s milestone further solidifies its reputation as “the University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride.”
Dr. Oduwole’s return to UNILAG and her role as an advocate for Nigerian-made solutions illustrates her journey full circle from student and lecturer to minister.
