Nigeria’s Nuclear Future: Powering a Sustainable Energy Revolution

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy faces a persistent energy deficit that hampers industrial growth and everyday life. Despite vast natural resources, unreliable electricity supply and frequent blackouts continue to limit development.

With 85% of electricity currently generated from gas-fired power plants and hydropower providing limited support, the country needs a more stable and scalable solution. Nuclear energy may allow Nigeria to secure a clean, reliable, and economically beneficial energy future.

 

According to Prince Steve Ajayi, a respected financial researcher, Nigeria’s energy infrastructure needs to be improved. In 2019, only 41.2% of installed power capacity was available for use, and transmission losses reached 7.4%.

Despite ambitious renewable energy goals, solar and wind contribute less than 1% to the energy mix yet. While a significant contributor, hydropower is vulnerable to droughts and seasonal fluctuations. The country’s low per capita electricity consumption – among the lowest in Africa at less than 150 kWh per person – underscores the urgent need for more reliable energy sources. Major economies like China and India have turned to nuclear power to stabilise their grids and reduce carbon emissions. Nigeria can follow suit by integrating nuclear energy into its power strategy.

 

Unlike solar and wind, which depend on weather conditions, nuclear power provides continuous electricity generation. Large-scale nuclear power plants ensure a stable grid, reducing dependence on costly imported diesel generators and fluctuating gas supplies. A reliable baseload power source is particularly crucial for industrial expansion, economic growth, and ensuring that urban and rural areas alike receive uninterrupted electricity.

South Africa’s Koeberg nuclear power station has successfully provided stable electricity for decades. Nigeria can achieve similar success by incorporating nuclear power into its energy mix, ensuring long-term energy security and economic resilience.

 

Nigeria has committed to reducing carbon emissions by 20% by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2050–2070. Nuclear power supports these targets by offering a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. It emits just 12 g CO₂ per kWh, compared to 820 g CO₂ per kWh from coal, making it one of the most environmentally friendly large-scale power sources.

While Nigeria’s climate action plan prioritises solar energy, overreliance on intermittent renewables could lead to energy shortages. A balanced mix where nuclear provides baseload power while renewables contribute intermittently, ensures both stability and sustainability.

 

Beyond energy security, nuclear power plays a crucial role in economic development. Each nuclear power plant provides direct employment for hundreds of engineers, technicians, and operators while also generating thousands of indirect jobs in construction, logistics, and maintenance.

The ripple effect of nuclear investments extends beyond the energy sector, fostering infrastructure development in transportation, communications, and utilities. Nigeria’s energy sector reform efforts since 2005 have encouraged privatisation and investment. However, limited grid capacity and technical inefficiencies remain major obstacles. The introduction of nuclear power can help bridge these gaps, boost industrialisation, attract foreign investment, and reduce reliance on costly energy imports.

 

Nigeria is not alone in its pursuit of nuclear energy. Across the continent, countries are increasingly recognising the benefits of nuclear power as a solution to energy insecurity. South Africa, home to the only operational nuclear power station in Africa, provides a model for integrating nuclear into a country’s energy mix. Its Koeberg plant has been supplying stable electricity for nearly four decades, demonstrating that nuclear is a viable long-term solution.

 

Beyond South Africa, Egypt is actively expanding its nuclear energy capabilities with the construction of a 4,800 MWe nuclear power plant, a project undertaken with the support of Russia’s nuclear giant Rosatom. Once completed, this facility will become a cornerstone of Egypt’s energy mix, reducing dependence on gas and coal. Other nations, such as Ghana and Kenya, have also begun exploring nuclear power as part of their long-term energy strategies.

Nigeria, with its economic influence and strategic location, has the potential to emerge as a leader in this regional transition. By establishing a strong nuclear programme, Nigeria can not only meet its own energy needs but also serve as a hub for nuclear expertise in West Africa.

 

With its vast resources and growing population, Nigeria is positioned to lead the next phase of Africa’s energy transition. Developing nuclear power would not only ensure domestic energy security but also position the country as a regional leader in advanced energy technologies. Nigeria’s investment in nuclear energy could lead to the creation of a West African nuclear research and training hub, attracting talent from neighbouringcountries and fostering scientific collaboration.

With a well-developed nuclear sector, Nigeria could offer expertise, technical support, and even energy exports to surrounding nations, strengthening its geopolitical influence.

 

International partnerships, such as Nigeria’s agreements with Russia and China, lay the groundwork for a robust nuclear programme. Russia’s Rosatom has been actively supporting Africa’s nuclear ambitions. The company has trained Nigerian students in nuclear science and engineering through partnerships with Russian universities, ensuring that the country builds its own nuclear expertise.

Since 2009, Nigeria has signed multiple agreements with Russia covering reactor development, research collaboration, and capacity building. However, long-term success requires strategic investment in education and workforce development. Expanding STEM education, increasing government transparency in nuclear policy, and engaging the public in discussions about nuclear power will be essential to ensuring broad support for this ambitious transition.

 

With careful planning, international collaboration, and investment in infrastructure, Nigeria can become a leader in Africa’s clean energy transition. A balanced energy mix, where nuclear power complements renewables, is key to achieving energy security, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria has the potential to lead the continent in nuclear energy adoption. By embracing nuclear power, the country can secure its energy future – one powered by stability, sustainability, and growth.