Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NCRA) has said Nigeria can enjoy affordable electricity if the nation leverage on nuclear energy as it can provide secure and reliable low-emission electricity at relatively stable prices.
The Authority said despite its difficulty, nuclear power has specific attractions for Nigeria, adding that it will lead to a decline in the domestic demand for petroleum use in powering generators and increase foreign exchange earnings from the oil industry.
The director-general of the NNRA and chairperson of the Bureau of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) Dr. Yau Idris Usman disclosed this during a CSO roundtable and media brief organised by Integrity Advocacy Development Initiative in collaboration with NNRA.
The general manager, NNRA, Dr Mbet Akpanowo, who represented the director general in his presentation added that nuclear power would reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels and water resources emanating from neighbouring countries.
On his part, the executive director, Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) Comrade Christopher Ofomhi said the roundtable engagement aims to promote national development objectives through NNRA as a key facilitator of economic growth not just in nuclear power but by extension in areas like security, housing, and employment.
“You will agree with me that power is an important step to national development and this is what necessitated today’s program,” he added.
