The University of Lagos (UNILAG) hosted a historic homecoming on October 1, when Dr. Olajumoke Omoniyi Oduwole, MFR, Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, returned to her alma mater to receive her brand-new official vehicle — a Nord Demir SUV proudly assembled at the Nord UNILAG Assembly Plant.
The moment was more than ceremonial. For UNILAG, it marked the fulfilment of a bold vision to link academic training with industry innovation, while for the Minister, it was a powerful endorsement of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises homegrown enterprise and “Made in Nigeria” products.
“I will ride this with pride in Abuja and at official engagements,” Dr. Oduwole said. “This is a testament to supporting the Nigeria-First initiative. We are committed to scaling Nigerian businesses across the country, Africa, and beyond.”
UNILAG and Nord: A Groundbreaking Partnership
The partnership between UNILAG and Nord Automobile (Nord Motion), launched in 2022, birthed Africa’s first university-based automobile assembly plant. The facility not only produces vehicles but also offers students internships and hands-on training across disciplines — from engineering and architecture to business and the creative arts.
During a tour of the assembly line, Joshua Oluwatobi Ajayi, Chairman/CEO of Nord Automobile, showcased the plant’s research unit, workshop, and showroom. He explained that while some parts are imported, a significant portion is manufactured locally, reinforcing Nord’s mission to build a competitive Nigerian automobile brand.
Nord currently assembles up to five vehicles daily at the UNILAG plant and ten at its Epe facility, serving top Nigerian companies and eyeing international expansion. Models include the Nord Flit, Max, A3, A5, A7, Demir, Tank, Tusk, and Tripper.
A Symbol of Innovation and Hope
Representing Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research) Professor Bola Oboh praised the Minister, an alumna and former lecturer in UNILAG’s Faculty of Law, for choosing to celebrate Independence Day with such a symbolic gesture.
“It is inspiring that Dr. Oduwole received her official car, not only made in Nigeria but assembled right here on the grounds of her alma mater,” Professor Oboh said. “This will motivate many Nigerians to dream big and believe in the possibilities within our nation.”
The visit reaffirmed UNILAG’s role as the University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride — an institution that fosters innovation, nurtures enterprises, and equips students to become solution providers for Nigeria’s growth.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
