Nigeria to Boost Power Generation with Nuclear Energy Collaboration

Strategic Insights -

The Federal Ministry of Power in Nigeria has collaborated with the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) to enhance power generation, efficiency, and reliability. This partnership aims to revitalize the power sector, leveraging nuclear energy as a more efficient and beneficial alternative to conventional sources. The collaboration was initiated by Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and Acting Chairman of NAEC, Anthony Ekedewa.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Federal Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) have collaborated to boost power generation and stabilize the power sector.
  • Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, emphasized the benefits of nuclear energy, stating that it is less cumbersome and more beneficial for the country's energy needs.
  • The Minister advised against the proposed establishment of four power plants with a capacity to generate 1200 MW each, instead advocating for a modular nuclear reactor.
  • The partnership aims to establish a nuclear power plant with a capacity to generate 1200 MW, utilizing two possible sites: Geregu in Kogi State and Idu in Akwa Ibom State.
  • Anthony Ekedewa, Acting Chairman of NAEC, briefed the Minister on the commission's activities since its establishment in 1976 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
  • The Minister proposed a joint workshop between the ministry and the commission, along with other power sector stakeholders, to brainstorm ways to enhance collaboration and benefit from each other.
  • The collaboration is part of the government's efforts to reform the power sector, with a focus on decolonizing the sector and allowing states to benefit from power projects.

Statistics:

  • 1200 MW: proposed capacity of the nuclear power plant.
  • 1976: year the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) was established.
  • 4: number of proposed power plants with a capacity of 1200 MW each.
  • 2: possible sites for establishing a nuclear power plant: Geregu in Kogi State and Idu in Akwa Ibom State.

Sources:

  • "To expand electricity access across Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Power has initiated collaboration with the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) to boost power generation and ensure a more stable, efficient, and reliable supply." (Voice of Nigeria, 21 May 2025)
  • "We have not been having this rapport in the past, but I'm happy we are starting from somewhere now and I believe that we will sustain it for the overall benefit of our country." (Minister Adebayo Adelabu)
  • "Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) was established in 1976 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a military head of state." (Anthony Ekedewa, Acting Chairman of NAEC)