Minister backs Nigerian innovation, picks Nord Demir as official vehicle

Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, has chosen a locally assembled Nord Demir vehicle from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Assembly Plant as her official car, a move she says shows faith in Nigerian talent and supports local jobs.

Speaking during her visit to her alma mater on Friday, Oduwole said her choice reflected the government’s push for homegrown innovation and industrial growth under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This car is more than transport; it’s a symbol of faith in Nigeria,” Oduwole said. “By choosing this car, we’re boosting local industry, creating jobs, supporting education, and proving our institutions can deliver world-class innovation.”

The UNILAG-Nord partnership, established in 2022, is Africa’s first university-based automobile assembly plant. It has produced at least five vehicles and trained dozens of students in modern manufacturing, including work on electric cars and drone technology.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, represented by her deputy, Prof. Bola Oboh, praised Oduwole’s choice as “a homecoming of purpose” and a show of confidence in Nigerian youth.

“It is inspiring that a former student now returns as a minister to drive a car built by our students,” Oboh said. “It proves that with knowledge and innovation, Nigerians can achieve greatness.”

The Minister also toured the plant’s assembly line and research unit.
As she drove away in the Nord Demir, UNILAG described the moment as symbolic of Nigeria’s future — one built by Nigerians, not imported.

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