The Anambra State Government has strengthened its partnership with the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) to enhance radiation safety and ensure the safe use of radioactive materials in healthcare facilities across the state.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting in Awka between the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, and a delegation from the NNRA led by the South-East Zonal Coordinator, Mr Ekene Efienemokwu.
Efienemokwu said the visit was aimed at deepening collaboration and acquainting the state government with the authority’s statutory mandate to regulate radioactive materials from importation to their application in hospitals, diagnostic centres and other licensed facilities.
He said the NNRA is responsible for ensuring that radioactive materials are handled and used in compliance with national regulations to protect healthcare workers, patients, the public and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation.
Obidike commended the NNRA for its regulatory role in promoting the safe and peaceful use of radioactive materials across Nigeria and reaffirmed the Anambra State Government’s commitment to working closely with the authority to strengthen radiation safety and improve healthcare delivery.
Dr Afam, the Commissioner for Health, said the state government, under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, is investing in modern healthcare infrastructure, including the establishment of an oncology centre. He stressed the need for collaboration with the NNRA to ensure the facility operates in line with national and international radiation safety standards.
Efienemokwu assured the state government of the authority’s readiness to provide the technical and regulatory support required for the oncology centre and other healthcare facilities using radioactive materials.
He added that the NNRA would continue to partner with the Anambra State Ministry of Health to strengthen radiation protection, promote compliance with safety regulations and support a safer healthcare environment for healthcare workers and patients.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration to enhance healthcare delivery, protect the environment and ensure the safe and peaceful use of radioactive materials in Anambra State.
