Oredola Adeola

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed trust in Dr. Yau Usman Idris by granting him a second term as Director General/CEO of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), effective February 18, 2024, extending his tenure for an additional five years.

This reappointment was contained in a letter from the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri dated March 11, 2024, and obtained by Advisors Reports at the weekend.

Advisors Reports’ check showed that NNRA, a parastatal in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, registers, licenses, inspects and enforces nuclear safety and radiological protection in all practices within the country.

Dr Idris is expected to upgrade NNRA’s regulatory framework and its expertise which will be essential for ensuring safe and sustainable nuclear energy utilization as Nigeria strives to achieve its energy goals and meet growing electricity demands.

The NNRA’s efforts are pivotal in diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix to include nuclear power.

As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria recognizes the importance of nuclear energy in meeting the increasing demand for electricity and supporting economic growth. By incorporating nuclear power into its energy portfolio, Nigeria aims to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels, and address the challenges of power generation and distribution.

One key impact of the NNRA is its contribution to the development of Nigeria’s nuclear power infrastructure.

Through collaborations with international bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Nigeria has been making notable progress in setting up the necessary infrastructure for a nuclear power program.

This progress includes advancements in areas such as safeguards, regulatory capacity building, and human resource development.

HIS BACKGROUND
Dr. Idris was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 29, 2020, and has been actively involved in nuclear safety initiatives, holding positions such as Vice Chairman of the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa and African Regional Coordinator of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Advisors Reports gathered that Dr. Idris has an extensive career in the field of nuclear physics, having served in various national and international roles.

He a Nigerian nuclear physicist, holds a B.Sc in physics from the University of Maiduguri, an M.Sc. in physics from the University of Ibadan, and a Ph.D. in nuclear physics from Ahmadu Bello University.

He has also received certifications in reactor safety and nuclear technology from institutions in South Korea and the United States.

Before joining the NNRA, Dr. Idris was the Kaduna State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources. He was also a lecturer and researcher in Physics with the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and University of Maiduguri for 15 years.