No Foreign Cars! Why I Opted For A UNILAG-Assembled Vehicle – Minister Reveals

The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, has revealed that she deliberately opted for a Nord Demir vehicle assembled at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Assembly Plant as her official car.

Dr. Oduwole, an alumna of UNILAG’s Faculty of Law and a former lecturer at the institution, described the move as a “homecoming of purpose.” She explained that her decision was driven by a desire to boost local industry, create jobs, support education, and prove that Nigerian institutions are capable of delivering world-class innovation.

“This car is more than transportation; it is a symbol of faith in Nigeria,” she said. “By choosing UNILAG, we are strengthening local industry, encouraging innovation, and supporting the Nigeria-First Initiative of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. I will drive it with pride in Abuja and at official engagements.”

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Professor Bola Oboh, hailed the Minister’s choice as both symbolic and inspirational. “It is historic that one of our own—who studied and taught here—returns as a minister to embrace a vehicle assembled by UNILAG students. This underscores the power of knowledge, research, and innovation in building a stronger nation,” Oboh said.

Dr. Oduwole also toured the Nord Automobile facilities on campus, including the assembly line, research and development unit, and showroom, where she commended the institution’s efforts in bridging academia and industry.