Youth leaders and civil society organizations have thrown their weight behind the Director General of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), calling on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to strengthen the agency with increased budgetary allocation in order to safeguard public health, environmental safety, and national energy security.
The call was led by Ambassador Akoshile Mukhtar, National Vice President (North Central) of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday. He praised the NNRA leadership for maintaining international best practices in nuclear regulation, radiation protection, and oversight of nuclear technology in Nigeria.
Mukhtar noted that the NNRA plays a critical role in shielding Nigerians from harmful radiation exposure, ensuring the safe use of nuclear applications in industries, and building investor confidence in the energy and industrial sectors.
“The NNRA under its present leadership has not only upheld Nigeria’s international obligations but has also positioned the country as a responsible player in nuclear safety across Africa. This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs to safeguard lives, protect our environment, and guarantee energy sustainability,” Mukhtar said.
He, however, lamented that chronic underfunding remains a major obstacle to the agency’s effectiveness despite its wide-ranging responsibilities in healthcare, oil and gas, agriculture, defense operations, and Nigeria’s growing nuclear energy ambitions.
“Funding nuclear safety is not optional—it is essential. A well-resourced NNRA translates to a safer Nigeria, stronger compliance with global standards, and greater investor trust,” he added.
Following deliberations, the youth and civil society coalition resolved to push for:
Engagement with the National Assembly to secure increased allocations for NNRA in the 2025/2026 budget cycles.
Nationwide public awareness campaigns on nuclear and radiation safety.
Support for reforms aimed at modernizing NNRA’s regulatory frameworks.
Inclusion of Nigerian youths in nuclear safety initiatives, research, and capacity building.
Deeper cooperation with international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), for training and technical support.
Recognition of nuclear safety as a national security priority, particularly in preventing radiological emergencies and misuse of nuclear materials.
Integration of nuclear safety into Nigeria’s climate change and clean energy agenda.
The coalition concluded by urging the Federal Government to “match commitment with resources,” stressing that the NNRA remains a silent but strategic guardian of national safety and sustainable development.