By Fatima Saka
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the peaceful application of nuclear energy as part of efforts to advance national development and strengthen its participation in global nuclear governance.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), Anthony Inalegwu G. Ekedegwa, during a meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two institutions.
According to the minister, nuclear energy and atomic technology have become central issues in global discussions on energy security, technological advancement, and international peace and security.
He noted that although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not directly supervise NAEC, it plays a crucial role in facilitating Nigeria’s engagement with international organisations and multilateral frameworks related to nuclear governance.
Tuggar stressed the need for stronger institutional collaboration to enhance Nigeria’s voice in international nuclear diplomacy, particularly within the United Nations system and other multilateral platforms.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding support for the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology to promote socio-economic development.
Earlier, Ekedegwa briefed the minister on the activities and priorities of NAEC, highlighting Nigeria’s continued engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other global bodies.
He said such partnerships are crucial for technical cooperation, capacity development, and the use of nuclear technology in sectors including healthcare, agriculture, water resource management, and industrial development.
The NAEC chief also noted Nigeria’s long-term interest in developing nuclear power infrastructure to diversify the country’s energy mix and support sustainable economic growth.
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Both officials agreed on the need for coordinated diplomatic and technical engagement to advance Nigeria’s nuclear energy ambitions while complying with international safety standards and global non-proliferation commitments.
The meeting ended with a commitment by both institutions to deepen cooperation in promoting Nigeria’s strategic interests in the global nuclear space and harnessing nuclear technology for peaceful and developmental purposes.
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