IAEA to establish Capacity Building Centre (CBC) in NNRA for Emergency Preparedness and Response.

IAEA to establish Capacity Building Centre (CBC) in NNRA for Emergency Preparedness and Response.

Abuja, Nigeria - December 18, 2023.

In a landmark event, the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) is playing host to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Technical Cooperation Expert Mission at the NNRA Headquarters in Abuja from the 18^th to 22^nd of December, 2023.

The primary objective of the meeting is to leverage on the expertise of the IAEA to assist Nigeria in identifying and establishing a Capacity Building Centre specifically tailored for Emergency Preparedness and Response (CBC-EPR). This initiative aligns with the broader global commitment in enhancing capabilities in addressing radiological incidents and emergencies effectively.

The Director General/CEO of NNRA, Dr. Yau Idris, who also served as the host for this expert mission expressed his gratitude to the IAEA for choosing Nigeria as the venue for this crucial mission. He acknowledged the collective responsibility shared by all stakeholders in ensuring safety, security, and preparedness in the face of potential nuclear and radiological emergencies. He further added that hosting the CBC-EPR Expert Mission demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to the establishment and strengthening of its national arrangements for nuclear infrastructural development and emergency preparedness and response in the country.

Two Experts from the IAEA, Mr. Abdelkader Benider from Morocco and Mr. Hany Elsanafeny from Egypt are participating in the mission. Mr. Abdelkader in his speech shed light on the significance of the expert mission and explained the concept of CBC-EPR. He stated that these centers play some critical roles such as assessing legal, emergency planning, and partnership considerations that would enhance emergency preparedness arrangements at national and international levels. He further added that in Africa, the IAEA fosters strong regional cooperation by promoting sustainability through collaborations with existing regional centers.

The meeting saw the participation of approximately forty (40) stakeholders representing a broad spectrum within the framework of emergency preparedness and response in Nigeria. Participants included regulatory bodies, the Atomic Energy Commission, response organizations such as the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Civil Defense Corps, Department of States Services, Federal Road Safety Corps, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, Office of the National Security Adviser, the Media, operators, and non-governmental organizations.

The expected outcomes of this collaborative effort are vast and include the establishment of a robust CBC-EPR in Nigeria, recognized by the IAEA. This center will not only enhance national capacities but also contribute to regional and international efforts in responding to nuclear or radiological emergencies, ensuring a safer and more secure future.

As the expert mission progresses, stakeholders are optimistic that the knowledge sharing and collaboration will pave the way for a more resilient and prepared Nigeria in the face of potential radiological incidents.