Nuclear-Aware Africa Seeks NAEC Collaboration to Combat Misinformation

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

Nuclear‑Aware Africa (NAA), a non‑governmental organisation that promotes the peaceful use of nuclear technology across the continent, has urged the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) to form a strategic partnership to counter misinformation and disinformation about nuclear science in Nigeria and Africa.

The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by a NAA delegation to Engr. Dr. Anthony Ekedegwa, Acting Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NAEC, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja yesterday.

According to a statement released to THISDAY, the meeting was led by NAA’s Programme Director, Ruth Shimaor, and focused on enhancing public awareness and advocacy for peaceful nuclear applications.

During the visit, Shimaor formally requested collaboration with NAEC to address misconceptions and false narratives surrounding nuclear technologies.

“We believe that strategic collaboration with NAEC is essential in addressing misinformation and disinformation about nuclear science. Through joint advocacy and public engagement, we can help Nigerians and Africans better understand the benefits of peaceful nuclear applications for development,” she said.

Mr. Amos Obeya, Head of Information and Public Relations Unit (IPRU) at NAEC, briefed the delegation on the Commission’s ongoing stakeholder engagement and public sensitisation initiatives nationwide.

“NAEC has continued to engage stakeholders and communities to improve public understanding of nuclear technology. We encourage Nuclear‑Aware Africa to also collaborate with the Atomic Energy Committees of the National Assembly as part of its advocacy and sensitisation efforts,” he said.

Engr. Auwal Bissalah, Head of ICL‑NAEC, praised NAA for its advocacy work, particularly its podcast series that educates the public on nuclear science.

Responding, Engr. Dr. Anthony Ekedegwa praised NAA for its proactive role in promoting accurate information about nuclear technology and urged the organisation to sustain its efforts.

“I commend Nuclear‑Aware Africa for taking the initiative to educate the public and counter misconceptions about nuclear technology. There is a need to continue debunking myths, especially regarding the peaceful applications of nuclear science in healthcare, cancer treatment, radiopharmacy, agriculture and food security,” Ekedegwa said.

He highlighted the benefits of radioisotopes in oncology and cancer care, the socio‑economic advantages of the country’s Multi‑Purpose Research Reactor and Gamma Irradiation Facility, and briefed the delegation on the prospects of integrating nuclear energy into Nigeria’s energy mix.