A statement disclosed by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on Friday said the minister, an alumna of UNILAG’s Faculty of Law and former lecturer at the institution, paid a visit to her alma mater for what she called “homecoming of purpose.”
On her visitation, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole chose a Nord Demir car, assembled at the University of Lagos Assembly Plant, as her latest official vehicle to improve local industry, create jobs, support education, and affirm that Nigerian institutions can provide world-class solutions and innovations.
“This car is more than a means of transport; it is a sign of faith in Nigeria. I selected 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 said.
Oduwole explained that the decision was not just about acquiring a made in Nigeria product but about complying with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which centres on 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 stated.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, who was represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Prof. Bola Oboh lauded the minister, describing her 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.
Since the establishment of the UNILAG Nord Automobile facility in July 2022, the UNILAG–Nord partnership has served as Africa’s first university-based automobile assembly plant, producing up to five vehicles and offering cross-disciplinary internship opportunities.
Hence, students gain hands-on experience in automobile manufacturing, and exposed to emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and drone assembly
The minister also conducted a tour of the facility including the assembly line, research and development unit, and showroom.
Oduwole’s visitation reaffirmed the sustainable potential hidden in Nigerian institutions.
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