Nigeria, the biggest oil producer in Africa, is negotiating nuclear energy cooperation with Russia, which might transform the nation’s electrical industry. During the 38th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar made the discovery in an interview with the Russian news agency Sputnik.
Tuggar said the discussions encompass a number of opportunities, such as mining, atomic energy, and revitalizing old Soviet investments. Nigeria and Russia have already discussed nuclear energy. Nigeria and Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear organization, inked agreements in 2017 to construct nuclear power reactors in Nigeria, with possible locations in the states of Kogi and Akwa Ibom.
Nuclear energy is gaining popularity again as a result of Nigeria’s ongoing power outages, which force millions of people and companies to rely on expensive generators. The collaboration might greatly increase Nigeria’s electricity supply if it is effective, offering a reliable substitute for gas and hydroelectric power plants.
Russia has been extending its nuclear alliances throughout Africa, with more than 20 nations in discussions on research facilities, uranium mining, and nuclear power plants. Nigeria’s participation shows its dedication to expanding its energy supplies and fortifying its relationships with allies throughout the world.
But issues with money, security, and implementation schedules still exist. Although nuclear energy might offer a sustainable answer to Nigeria’s power issues, previous infrastructure initiatives have frequently failed because of budgetary and administrative roadblocks.
Nigerians are currently keeping a close eye on these talks to see how they play out and whether nuclear energy will finally bring about the much-needed revolution in electricity in their nation.
