Nuclear Energy Initiative: Nigeria partners International Atomic Energy Council

ABUJA (Federal Ministry of Power Report) – The Minister of Power, Chinedu Nebo (Prof) has assured the visiting delegation of the International Atomic Energy Council led by its Deputy Director-General, Kwanu Aning that in no distant future, Nigeria in its quest for a robust energy mix will look into the direction of nuclear energy.
 
Chinedu Nebo said that it is no longer acceptable for the nation to put all its eggs in one basket, insisting that Nigeria will need to correct and avoid in the future hiccups occasioned by lack of gas to power plants. “We need coal, biomass, small hydros, solar, even nuclear and if designed is the best as it is the cleanest and safest form of energy,” he indicated.
 
The Minister further disclosed that as the nation aspires to becoming the hub of technological know-how in the continent, the acquisition of nuclear technology will make our people to mentor other African countries. He assured the visiting IAEC delegation that Nigeria will welcome nuclear initiatives because of its immense contribution to the treatment of delicate anti-human substances that are usually tackled using nuclear medicine. He observed that whatever Nigeria has to do in terms of the acquisition of nuclear energy would be guided by the best international practice; noting that nuclear energy deployment must be done in line with strict rules of engagement.
 
Earlier in his speech, the leader of the IAEC, Kwanu Aning while briefing the Minister said that the regulatory role of the body is to ensure that countries who are deploying nuclear energy have the right technical staff as well as safe environment since nuclear power is a complex energy source.  “Energy is life; we support countries’ energy efficiency programmes. We exchange ideas, in order to strengthen our regulatory role,” he iterated. Present at the occasion to receive the delegation was the Minister of State for Power, Mohammed Wakil.