By Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to support national development and strengthen its role in global nuclear governance.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, reiterated the position on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), Anthony Inalegwu G. Ekedegwa, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the meeting reviewed Nigeria’s participation in global nuclear governance and explored ways to strengthen collaboration between the ministry and the commission.
Tuggar noted that nuclear energy and atomic technology have become central to global conversations on energy security, technological development, and international peace and security. He explained that although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not directly supervise the commission, it plays a critical role in facilitating Nigeria’s engagement with international organisations and multilateral frameworks dealing with nuclear governance.
The minister stressed the need for stronger institutional cooperation between the ministry and NAEC to enhance Nigeria’s voice in international nuclear diplomacy, particularly within the United Nations system and other multilateral institutions. He also reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding support for the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology to drive socio-economic development.
Earlier, Ekedegwa briefed the minister on the activities and priorities of the commission, highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s continued engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international bodies.
He noted that such collaboration remains vital for technical cooperation, capacity development, and the application of nuclear technology in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, water resource management, and industrial development.
