The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has advised the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) to reconsider its plan to construct four nuclear power plants, each with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts, totaling 4,800MW.
According to a statement by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, on Wednesday, the minister gave the advice during a meeting on Tuesday with the Acting Chairman of NAEC, Anthony Ekedewa, at his office in Abuja.
Ekedewa had briefed Adelabu on the commission's mandate and plans, noting that NAEC, established in 1976 under former Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo, aims to contribute to national energy needs through nuclear power, describing it as a viable renewable energy source.
He disclosed that feasibility studies had already been conducted on two proposed sites — Geregu in Kogi State and Idu in Akwa Ibom State — and that the commission seeks partnership with the Ministry of Power due to limited resources. “We want to work with you on power generation. We can serve as a base load for the country,” Ekedewa said.
In response, Adelabu advised against the proposed large-scale project, stating that while modular nuclear reactors may be suitable — especially given the recent decentralisation of the power sector — the country had yet to fully harness conventional energy sources. He questioned the timing and viability of large nuclear projects, suggesting a focus on maximising existing power potentials first.
“This is an area states can benefit from. A lot has been invested in NAEC, and Nigeria should begin to reap from those investments,” he said.
Despite his reservations about the proposed nuclear plants, Adelabu acknowledged the potential benefits of nuclear energy, calling it an advanced stage of power generation that could significantly boost electricity supply and enhance the efficiency of the national grid. He noted that although the process is tedious and expensive, the long-term gains would be considerable.
He also expressed regret over the lack of past collaboration between the Ministry and the Commission but welcomed the renewed engagement. “We haven’t had this rapport in the past, but I’m happy we are starting now. We must sustain it for the benefit of the country,” Adelabu stated.
The minister proposed a joint workshop involving the Ministry, the Commission, and other stakeholders in the power sector to explore ways to strengthen the partnership and ensure its success.
Adelabu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to working with NAEC, emphasizing that nuclear energy represents the future of power generation and urging all stakeholders to align efforts toward improving the sector.
ADEOLA KUNLE
