Nigeria and the Atom

A Chronicle of Vision, Progress, and Peaceful Power

By Ojinnaka, Chukwudi Afamefula Samuel (CASO)

Tags/Keywords:

Nigeria nuclear energy, NAEC, NIRR-1, Nigeria research reactor, IAEA, Rosatom, SMRs Nigeria, Atoms for Peace, CERT Zaria, Nigeria Atom Chronicles

---

In the heart of Africa, where the sun blazes with relentless intensity and rivers carve their paths through ancient lands, Nigeria's journey into the realm of nuclear energy began, not with a bang, but with a vision to position Nigeria in the comity of Nations.

The year was 1976. Amidst global tensions and the race for nuclear technology supremacy, Nigeria made a bold leap by establishing the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) through Act 46 of 1976 (as amended by Cap N91 LFN, 2004). This move wasn't merely about joining the nuclear club; it was a statement of intent, a commitment to harness the atom's power for peaceful purposes, to illuminate homes, heal the sick, and propel the nation into a future of self-reliance and scientific prowess. Though the leadership of the time nurtured the idea of weaponry, that idea was short-lived but was directed towards ‘Atoms for Peace’.

Notably, it was General Olusegun Obasanjo, then Head of State, who initiated this visionary step. Decades later, in a remarkable twist of continuity, President Olusegun Obasanjo would, in July 2006, activate NAEC under the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology by appointing its pioneer Executive Officers. By March 2011, the President of the time reconstituted NAEC to operate under the presidency of the Nation in accordance with International standard. These acts signified Nigeria's renewed commitment to the peaceful use of atomic energy.

Following the enactment of the NAEC Act in 1976, the Federal Government, in 1978, established two university-based research and training centres – Centre for Energy Research and Development (CERD) at the Obafemi Awolowo University, then University of Ife, Ile-Ife and Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT) at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. These centres were mandated to conduct research, develop, and train manpower in nuclear technology, engineering, and sciences. CERT notably houses the Nigeria Research Reactor-1 (NIRR-1), the nation's first nuclear reactor, commissioned in 2004. In 1988, the Nuclear Technology Centre (NTC) at the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) in Abuja was established as the third training and research centre in nuclear technology. The NTC hosts the Gamma Irradiation Facility (GIF), a multipurpose plant designed for research and development in areas such as food preservation, medical sterilization, and materials processing. The GIF has been instrumental in reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring food safety in Nigeria.

Further expanding the nation's nuclear research infrastructure, NAEC established two additional centres in 2010 – Centre for Nuclear Energy Studies (CNES) at the University of Port Harcourt and Centre for Nuclear Energy Research and Training (CNERT) at the University of Maiduguri. All five centres at the time aimed to develop nuclear technology applications in medical and human health, food and agriculture, management of water resources, and the energy sector, among others. The CNES has been recognized as a Centre of Excellence in Nuclear Security, having trained over 50 frontline personnel in nuclear security and developed educational programs for scientists, technicians, and engineers working in stakeholder institutions across the country.

Additionally, the Marine Contamination Coastal Field Monitoring Station (MCCFMS), located in Koluama II, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was established as a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Strategically situated near the Atlantic Ocean in the Niger Delta region, the MCCFMS focuses on monitoring and assessing marine contamination using nuclear analytical techniques. Its objectives include: Strengthening regional capacities in marine contamination assessment to ensure seafood safety, supporting the management of harmful algal blooms in the context of climate change, promoting technical cooperation among radio-analytical laboratories for environmental radioactivity measurements, monitoring aquatic plastic waste and assessing pollution trends. Through these concerted efforts, Nigeria has laid a robust foundation for the peaceful application of nuclear technology, addressing critical sectors such as health, agriculture, environmental protection, and energy.

As the 21st century unfolded, Nigeria's nuclear aspirations grew bolder. The energy demands of a growing population and an expanding economy underscored the need for sustainable and reliable power sources. Nuclear energy emerged as a viable solution. By 2015, Nigeria had entered into agreements with Russia's state-owned Rosatom to construct nuclear power plants, aiming to generate 4,800 MW by 2035. Sites in Geregu, Kogi State, and Itu, Akwa Ibom State, were earmarked for these ambitious projects. These developments signaled Nigeria's transition from research to large-scale energy production. Recognizing the evolving landscape of nuclear technology, Nigeria is also evaluating the adoption of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to align with diverse energy needs and infrastructure requirements.

The path hasn't been without obstacles. Concerns about safety, funding, and regulatory frameworks have surfaced. Yet, Nigeria's commitment remains unwavering. The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) has been instrumental in establishing guidelines to ensure the safe deployment of nuclear technologies. Moreover, Nigeria's adherence to international treaties, including the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and its collaboration with the IAEA, reflect a dedication to transparency and peaceful utilization of nuclear energy.

---

A Chronicle Begins

As we stand at this juncture, reflecting on decades of determination and progress, it's evident that Nigeria's nuclear ambition is not just about energy. It's about empowerment, education, and evolution. Nigeria Atom Chronicles (NAC) is born out of this narrative. Our mission is to document, analyze, and disseminate information about Nigeria's nuclear journey. Through stories, interviews, and insights, we aim to bridge the gap between complex nuclear science and the everyday Nigerian, fostering understanding and engagement.

Join us as we delve into the atoms that power our nation, the minds that steer our nuclear endeavors, and the future that beckons with promise.