The Nigerian Senate is seeking to repeal the Atomic Energy Commission Act
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Senator Uche Ekwunife, during Wednesday’s public hearing on the Atomic Energy Commission explained that the repeal and re-enactment bill seeks to modernise the over forty-year-old commission
“This Bill therefore seeks to repeal the Atomic Energy Commission Act (CAP.N91) Laws of the Federation to streamline its provisions. The Bill will make the commission cater for robust implementation of National Nuclear Programme in line with acceptable international standards in accordance with Nigeria’s obligation under relevant international legal instruments,” she stressed.
According to Senator Ekwunife, “The Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission Act was enacted forty-six years ago in 1976. Since then, there were no legislative steps taken to improve the Commission in line with realities of global dynamics.
She further said that, “It is imperative to note that the repeal of this Act does not in any way intend for negative use of nuclear power such as armament, but mainly for peaceful purpose in area of nuclear power, medical diagnoses and others.”
There was another hearing on a new piece of legislation, the Nigerian content bill where citizens were assured that the Bill on Nigerian content will help to address the problem of capital flight from the country.
Speaking on the second Bill, Senator Ekwunife explained that, “Local or domestic Content connotes the materials, workers, etc used to make products that are from the area where the product is made rather than being imported. In relation to this, it refers to the engagement of Nigerians in procurement and employment.”
President of the Senate Ahmad Lawan, who declared the event open, also stressed the need for citizens’ support and full participation to ensure that the National Assembly delivers on its mandate particularly concerning the two bills on science and technology.
The Senate President was represented by Senator Robert Borowfice.
PIAK
