The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Olajumoke Oduwole, has disclosed that she chose a Nord Demir, assembled at the University of Lagos Assembly Plant, as her new official vehicle.
According to her, her decision was based on her desire to boost local industry, create jobs, support education, and demonstrate that Nigerian institutions can deliver world-class solutions.
Speaking via a statement, UNILAG stated that the Minister, who is an alumna of the school’s Faculty of Law and former lecturer at the institution, returned to her alma mater for what she described as a “homecoming of purpose.”
“This car is more than a mode of transport; it is a symbol of faith in Nigeria. 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,” Dr. Oduwole said after turning the ignition of the locally assembled vehicle.
The Minister explained that the decision was not just about patronising a local brand but about aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasised industrialisation and economic stability.
“This is a practical demonstration of the Nigeria-First Initiative of Mr. President. By choosing this car, we are promoting research, encouraging innovation, and showing our young people that they can build solutions the world will respect,” she said.
Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Professor Bola Oboh hailed the Minister’s choice as a historic affirmation of UNILAG’s role in bridging academia and industry.
“It is not only symbolic but inspirational that one of our own, who once studied and taught here, has returned as a minister to receive a vehicle assembled by UNILAG students on our soil. This sends a message that with knowledge and innovation, Nigerians can dream and achieve big,” Oboh said.
The Minister was also conducted on a tour of the Nord Automobile facilities at UNILAG, including the assembly line, research and development unit, and showroom.
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