Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy as part of efforts to advance national development and strengthen its role in global nuclear governance.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, made this known while receiving the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), Anthony Inalegwu G. Ekedegwa, during a meeting on Thursday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
According to the minister, the engagement provided an opportunity for both institutions to review Nigeria’s participation in global nuclear governance and explore stronger collaboration in advancing the peaceful application of nuclear technology for national development.
Tuggar noted that atomic energy and nuclear technology remain critical issues in contemporary international relations, particularly in discussions surrounding energy security, technological advancement, and international peace and security.
He explained that although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not directly supervise the commission, it plays a vital role in facilitating Nigeria’s engagement with international organisations and multilateral frameworks related to nuclear governance.
The minister stressed the importance of sustained institutional cooperation between the ministry and the commission to strengthen Nigeria’s voice in global nuclear diplomacy, especially within the United Nations system and other multilateral institutions.
Tuggar also reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding support for the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology as a tool for socio-economic development.
Earlier in his remarks, Ekedegwa thanked the minister for the audience and briefed him on the activities and priorities of the commission. He emphasised the importance of Nigeria’s continued engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international bodies responsible for nuclear regulation and cooperation.
The meeting, officials said, reflects Nigeria’s broader commitment to responsible nuclear governance and the promotion of nuclear technology for peaceful and developmental purposes.
