Nigeria Strengthens Push for Peaceful Nuclear Technology for National Development

Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology to support national development and strengthen international cooperation in nuclear governance.

The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, made this known when he received the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), Engr. Dr. Anthony Inalegwu G. Ekedegwa, during a meeting on Thursday, 5 March 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

The meeting focused on Nigeria’s role in global nuclear governance and ways to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry and the Commission in promoting the safe and peaceful application of nuclear technology.

Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Tuggar noted that nuclear technology has become an important element in global discussions on energy security, technological advancement, and international peace. He explained that while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not directly supervise the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, it plays a key role in supporting Nigeria’s engagement with international organisations and multilateral institutions involved in nuclear regulation and cooperation.

The Minister stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the Ministry and the Commission to ensure Nigeria remains active and influential in international discussions on nuclear policy, particularly within the United Nations system and other global platforms. He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding position in favour of using nuclear science and technology strictly for peaceful and developmental purposes.

Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Ekedegwa thanked the Minister for the opportunity to brief him and provided an overview of the Commission’s current programmes and priorities. He highlighted the value of Nigeria’s continued partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international organisations, particularly in areas such as technical cooperation, training, and the practical use of nuclear technology in sectors including healthcare, agriculture, water resource management, and industry.

Discussions also touched on Nigeria’s long term plans to develop nuclear power as part of efforts to diversify the country’s energy sources and support sustainable economic growth. Both sides agreed on the need for coordinated diplomatic and technical efforts to advance Nigeria’s nuclear energy goals while adhering to global safety standards and international non-proliferation commitments.

The meeting ended with a shared commitment to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission in promoting Nigeria’s interests in the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology.

Signed

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja