NNRA ASSESSES RADIATION LEVELS AT MINING SITES IN UGWU ONYEAMA, ENUGU

NNRA ASSESSES RADIATION LEVELS AT MINING SITES IN UGWU ONYEAMA, ENUGU

The South-East Zonal Office (SEZO) of the NNRA has conducted an assessment of radiation levels at two mining sites in Ugwu Onyeama, Enugu State. The assessment covered the Aka Ajaja and Onyeama mining sites and was undertaken to ascertain radiation levels and identify potential radiation safety concerns associated with activities within the affected areas.

The assessment revealed elevated levels of background radiation at both sites, raising safety concerns for workers, residents and other members of the public who may live, work or carry out activities within and around the affected locations. Prolonged or repeated exposure to elevated levels of ionizing radiation may increase the risk of adverse health effects, underscoring the need for appropriate regulatory intervention and measures to control and minimise potential radiation exposure.

In response to the findings, the NNRA, through its South-East Zonal Office, is taking appropriate regulatory and enforcement steps to address the identified radiation safety concerns and ensure compliance with applicable radiation safety standards and regulatory requirements. The Authority remains committed to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment and ensuring that mining and other activities with potential radiation risks are conducted responsibly and in accordance with established safety standards.