Peaceful uses of nuclear energy represent the most legitimate and beneficial application of nuclear science and technology, the Nigerian government has said. 

“Developing countries, including Nigeria, are increasingly utilising nuclear applications to advance national development priorities, particularly in health, agriculture, water resource management, and energy generation. 

“Nigeria, therefore, emphasises that access to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes must not be subject to undue restrictions. The free exchange of materials, equipment, and scientific knowledge is a treaty obligation and must be upheld,” the African country said in a statement delivered on Wednesday by Mahmud Lawal, its representative to the United Nations in New York at the 11th review conference of the treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The country said it “aligns itself” with the statements delivered on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Group and “reaffirms that the inalienable right of all States Parties to develop research, production, and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, without discrimination, remains a fundamental pillar” of the treaty. 

The Nigerian government noted that the full and balanced implementation of “Article IV is essential to maintaining the credibility and sustainability of the NPT”.

While recognising the “indispensable” role of the International Atomic Energy Agency as the “sole competent authority” for safeguards verification and as the primary vehicle for technical cooperation, the Nigerian government pointed out that “significant gaps remain”. 

“Nigeria calls for enhanced technology transfer, strengthened capacity-building, and predictable and sustainable funding for technical cooperation activities, particularly for developing countries.

“My delegation also calls for deepened collaboration with the IAEA and development partners in priority areas such as cancer treatment, energy generation, and human resource development. 

“Nigeria underscores that nuclear energy is a clean, reliable, and climate-friendly source of energy. In this regard, we recall the Paris Agreement and emphasise the importance of expanding access to nuclear energy as part of a balanced global energy mix, the Nigerian official explained.

Mr Lawal added, “We also note emerging technologies such as Small Modular Reactors, while stressing that their development must not create new barriers that disadvantage developing countries. 

“Mr Chair, Nigeria reiterates that nuclear safety and security measures must be implemented within the framework of the IAEA and must not be used to restrict the rights of States Parties under the Treaty. 

“We further stress the importance of protecting nuclear facilities dedicated to peaceful purposes and call on all States to refrain from attacks or threats against such installations. Nigeria underscores that the peaceful uses pillar holds transformative potential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and advancing global development.”