Nigeria's nuclear power program plans remain active: IAEA chief

Nigeria's pursuit of a nuclear power program remains a live discussion, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) actively engaged in technical cooperation with the West African nation. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA Director General, confirmed that discussions and technical meetings are ongoing, signaling continued commitment to exploring nuclear energy options for Nigeria.

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We have continued working with Nigeria, I have to tell you. It’s not that after that visit, things stopped. We have continued at technical levels, some visits, and technical meetings.

Grossi stated that the IAEA has maintained continuous engagement with Nigerian authorities since his visit in May 2024, during which he described Nigeria's interest in nuclear energy as "a logical move for a country of your (Nigeria's) size and importance." He emphasized that progress has been made at technical levels, with various visits and meetings held to advance the program. However, Grossi cautioned that no definitive decision has been reached regarding the implementation of a nuclear power plant.

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There hasn’t been a decision yet. There is like a pre-decision to explore the alternative. Of course, your country (Nigeria) is a big oil producer country, an exporter, etc. So the discussion in your country is different from that in other countries.

The IAEA chief highlighted that Nigeria's context as a major crude oil producer differentiates its energy discussions from those in other countries. For Nigeria, nuclear energy is seen more as a matter of diversification rather than an immediate necessity. "It's a matter of diversification more than a matter of need, maybe. But the conversation space is pretty much alive, I must say," Grossi remarked.

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It’s a matter of diversification more than a matter of need, maybe. But the conversation space is pretty much alive, I must say.

The Nigerian nuclear energy program operates under the IAEA's guidance and safety standards, managed primarily by the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC). The program is reportedly advancing through foundational infrastructure and planning stages. In September 2023, Nigeria signed its Country Programme Framework (CPF) for 2024–2029, outlining the medium-term plan for technical cooperation between Nigeria and the IAEA. This framework underscores Nigeria's long-term vision for integrating nuclear technology into its energy mix.

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a logical move for a country of your (Nigeria's) size and importance.