FG eases fear on use of radiation equipment in Nigeria

The Nigerian government has affirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and secure use of radiation equipment, as experts raise concerns about its deployment across Africa.

Amb Nicholas Ella, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, stressed Nigeria’s dedication to advancing radiation safety and security, while speaking at a gathering of African member states on radiation safety in Abuja.

He highlighted the pivotal role played by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) in safeguarding people and the environment, citing routine workshops and training sessions conducted by the NNRA to raise awareness about radiation risks.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by nuclear regulators worldwide, Amb Ella urged participants to serve as ambassadors of their respective countries in promoting radiation safety.

Meanwhile, experts have voiced worries about the utilization of radiation equipment in many African nations.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed concerns about the lack of adequate safety infrastructure in the use of radiation across Africa.

Felix Wanjala, a programme management officer at the IAEA, emphasized the importance of using equipment like LINACs, used for cancer treatment in hospitals, in a safe and secure manner to prevent potential dangers.

The ongoing meeting in Abuja, attended by participants and experts from various African countries, aims to enhance radiation safety infrastructure on the continent. Hosted by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) with technical support from the IAEA, the event provides a platform for sharing experiences and best practices to improve radiation safety.

A director at NNRA, Adamu Hussaini, highlighted the objectives of the gathering, stressing the significance of discussing and reviewing progress made under previous safety projects and sharing experiences to enhance radiation safety infrastructure.

Wanjala restated the IAEA’s dedication to promote the safety and peaceful use of nuclear technologies through capacity-building initiatives. He underscores the agency’s support in training personnel and assisting member states in developing safety regulations and laws.

In conclusion, the event, commissioned by Tunji Alausa, the Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, highlights the cooperation efforts of African nations and international organizations in ensuring radiation safety and security across the continent.