Minister Sparks Reactions As She Picks UNILAG-Assembled Car As Official Ride

The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Olajumoke Oduwole, has revealed that she deliberately chose a Nord Demir assembled at the University of Lagos as her official vehicle. According to Ireporter Online, Oduwole described the decision as one rooted in patriotism and a commitment to promoting Nigeria’s industrial growth, job creation, and educational advancement.

The Minister, who is an alumna of UNILAG’s Faculty of Law and a former lecturer at the institution, referred to her return to the campus as a “homecoming of purpose.” She explained that her choice of the vehicle was not just symbolic but also a direct expression of faith in the nation’s capacity to deliver innovative, world-class solutions. “This car is more than a means of transport; it represents pride in Nigeria. By driving a UNILAG-assembled vehicle in Abuja and on official assignments, I am supporting local industry, education, and innovation,” she said.

Oduwole stressed that her decision aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on industrialisation and economic stability. She noted that the move was a practical demonstration of the Nigeria-First Initiative, designed to encourage research, innovation, and youth empowerment.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Professor Bola Oboh, described the Minister’s action as both historic and inspirational. He highlighted that the decision showcased how academia could successfully collaborate with industry to produce homegrown solutions. “It is deeply symbolic that one of our own, who studied and taught here, has returned as a minister to embrace a product built by UNILAG students. This proves that with knowledge and innovation, Nigerians can achieve globally recognised feats,” Oboh stated.

The Minister was also taken on a tour of the Nord Automobile facilities at UNILAG, including the assembly line, research and development centre, and showroom, where she praised the institution’s innovative strides.