By Yemie Adeoye

THE Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, NNRA, has concluded plans to boost nuclear safety and radiological protection nationwide as it continues an awareness campaign via a scheduled training seminar for lawyers in the country.

The training, which was held in Lagos last week was the third of its kind to be organised by the Authority, and is aimed at enlightening lawyers on the basic factors that can shape the laws on nuclear safety.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, who declared the event open, commended the management of the NNRA for its commitment to the capacity building programme for lawyers while urging the Agency to ensure the training moved to other states of the federation.

The Governor who was represented by the Solicitor General of the State, Mr. Lawal Pedro, stated that the development is commendable but prayed the Agency to sustain the momentum by institutionalising the NTC as an annual event.

“Nuclear matter is an issue that we cannot over-emphasize; it is a subject that affects all of us, irrespective of our tribe, religion, party affiliation or educational qualification. The effect of radioactive substance cuts across both geography and politics. If not properly managed, radioactive substances and allied products may compromise not only the lives of the present generation but also several generations yet unborn.

“It is therefore our collective responsibility to ensure that the statutory objective of the NNRA is achieved. As we are all aware, the primary obligation of the Authority is the control and regulation of the use of radioactive substances, material, equipment, emitting and generating ionizing radiation.

Also speaking at the event the Director General of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA, Dr. Ngeri Benebo, said that nuclear safety and protection is important in view of the recent global events that have put into focus the imperatives of nuclear safety and radiological protection.