NUCLEAR SAFETY AND RADIATION PROTECTION ACT
Act · Governance
An Act that establishes the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority and sets a framework for safe nuclear energy and radiation use. It targets operators of nuclear facilities, research institutions, and users in medical and industrial sectors. The act protects workers, the public, and the environment from radiation risks.
NUCLEAR SAFETY AND RADIATION PROTECTION ACT
What Is This Policy?
An Act that establishes the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority and provides a comprehensive framework for the safe use of nuclear energy and radiation sources in Nigeria.
Who Does It Target?
Nuclear facility operators and research institutions Medical and industrial radiation users Mining companies handling radioactive materials Government agencies and regulatory bodies
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Protect workers, the public, and the environment from harmful radiation; establish a robust regulatory framework; and ensure Nigeria's compliance with international nuclear safety standards.
Key Features
Regulatory Authority: Establishes the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) as the primary body for licensing and oversight of nuclear and radiation activities. Licensing Regime: Requires all persons and institutions dealing with nuclear materials or radiation sources to obtain valid licences before commencing operations. Radiation Protection Standards: Sets dose limits and safety standards for workers and the public in line with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines. Emergency Preparedness: Mandates emergency plans for nuclear incidents and establishes response protocols.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active - NNRA is operational and issuing licences Coverage: Nationwide Beneficiaries: Nigerian public, workers in radiation industries, environmental protection Funding: Federal Government appropriations and licensing fees
How to Access
Apply for a licence from the NNRA Comply with radiation protection standards Submit to routine inspections and audits Application method: Apply directly to the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).
Important Terms
Operating without a licence is a criminal offence Licensees must maintain records of radiation exposure Violations attract fines and revocation of licences
Impact & Metrics
Safeguards public health and environmental integrity from radiation hazards while enabling the beneficial use of nuclear technology in medicine, industry, and research.
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nnra.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA)
Legal Framework
Enacted under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Operates alongside the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) Act, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards agreements, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), and the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty).