NNRA PRESENTS REPORT ON RADIOLOGICAL SURVEY AND MINING REPORT TO THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINES AND STEEL DEVELOPMENT (MMSD)

NNRA PRESENTS REPORT ON RADIOLOGICAL SURVEY AND MINING REPORT TO THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINES AND STEEL DEVELOPMENT (MMSD)

 The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) led by the DG, Dr Yau Idris, presented the Report of the Joint Committee between the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) and Ministry of Mines and Steel Development (MMSD) on Radiological Survey of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) and Assessment of Internal Exposure of Miners on the Prevalence of Cancer and other Related cases in the Country to the Hon. Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Samson Ogah in his office on 9^th July, 2021.

The Report seeks presidential approval for the implementation of the Report so as to reduce radiological hazards associated with mining across the country. This will further ensure safety of exploration, mining, and milling of radioactive ores and other ores as associated with the presence of radioactive substances and guarantee the protection of life, health of all users, handlers and the public from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

Dr Yau Idris, while presenting the Report said exposure to radiological risks in mining and processing ores containing radioactive materials and the attendant danger they pose to the health of miners, populace and the environment, cannot be over emphasized. He said, NNRA’s responsibility is to ensure absolute protection of the public and environment in mining practices and processing of ores in order to avoid cancer.

In his response, the Hon. Minister of State for Mines and steel, Dr. Ogah appreciated the NNRA’s efforts in saving lives especially as it concerns the mining sector. He assured the Management of his unflinching support at reducing mining hazards in the country and will present the report to the Federal Executive Council for approval.