General Yakubu Gowon and Nigeria’s First Locally Assembled Peugeot

A Milestone in Nigerian Industrial History

In the mid-1970s, Nigeria took a significant step toward industrial self-reliance with the establishment of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN) in Kakuri, Kaduna. One of the most symbolic moments from this period was when Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, personally test-drove the first vehicle assembled at the PAN plant, known as PAN 1, between 1974 and 1975. The event marked a defining chapter in Nigeria’s drive toward industrialisation and indigenous manufacturing.

Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN), Kakuri

Peugeot Automobile Nigeria was established as a joint venture between the Federal Government of Nigeria, Peugeot of France, and Nigerian investors. The plant in Kakuri, Kaduna State, was designed to assemble passenger vehicles locally, reduce dependence on imported cars, create skilled employment, and stimulate technology transfer.

Kaduna was chosen due to its strategic location, existing industrial base, and proximity to rail and road networks, making it a hub for northern Nigeria’s manufacturing ambitions during the oil boom years.

The PAN 1 Test Drive

The photograph capturing General Yakubu Gowon test-driving PAN 1 holds both symbolic and practical significance. PAN 1 represents the first car assembled by Peugeot Automobile Nigeria, signifying the successful commencement of operations at the Kakuri plant.

General Gowon’s participation underscored:

The federal government’s strong political backing for industrial projects

The importance attached to local manufacturing during Nigeria’s post-war reconstruction era

Confidence in Nigeria’s ability to assemble modern automobiles to international standards

The test drive occurred during a transitional phase in Nigeria’s governance, shortly before Gowon was overthrown in July 1975, making the moment historically poignant.

Industrialisation and National Pride

During the 1970s, Nigeria pursued an ambitious industrialisation agenda, buoyed by oil revenues. PAN stood alongside other major industrial projects such as Ajaokuta Steel, Volkswagen of Nigeria (VON), and the cement factories spread across the country.

The PAN initiative:

Trained Nigerian engineers and technicians

Established local supply chains

Became a symbol of modernity and national pride

Peugeot vehicles assembled in Kaduna soon became common sights on Nigerian roads and were widely adopted by government agencies and private citizens alike.

Legacy of PAN

Peugeot Automobile Nigeria remained Nigeria’s leading automobile assembly company for decades and played a central role in shaping the country’s automotive culture. Although production levels fluctuated over time due to economic challenges, policy shifts, and import competition, PAN’s historical importance remains undisputed.

The image of General Gowon behind the wheel of PAN 1 continues to serve as a visual reminder of a period when Nigeria actively pursued industrial self-sufficiency with optimism and confidence.

The test drive of PAN 1 by General Yakubu Gowon was more than a ceremonial act—it represented Nigeria’s belief in its industrial future. The moment encapsulated the aspirations of a nation eager to build, assemble, and innovate locally. Today, it stands as an enduring symbol of Nigeria’s early automotive and manufacturing ambitions.

Source

Mohammed Tukur, Facebook Photos (archival image and caption)