The Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) and the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna) have formalized a partnership to develop nuclear science and engineering programs in Nigeria through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. The signing ceremony which took place at NAEC Headquarters on May 25, 2026, marks the culmination of months of collaboration between both institutions.

Under the MOU, both parties will collaborate on teaching, research, and training. Key areas include curriculum development, joint research initiatives, exchange of students and staff, co-supervision of students, collaborative publications, and grant applications. FUT Minna students will also gain access to NAEC’s laboratories and facilities at the Nuclear Technology Centre in Sheda for hands-on training.

The Acting Chairman of NAEC, Engr. Dr. Anthony Ekedegwa, noted that the partnership aligns with the Commission’s mandate to train 2,000 qualified nuclear scientists and engineers for Nigeria’s nuclear energy program. He emphasized that building indigenous capacity is critical for sustainability, adding that NAEC experts will support FUT Minna with lectures and training until the university develops full internal capacity.

The Vice Chancellor of FUT Minna, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, explained further that such collaboration can help address national challenges in energy, food security, and natural resource management using indigenous technology. He highlighted plans for staff and student exchange program and for NAEC to guide the development of the 30% of the new curriculum.

The Head of International Cooperation and Liaison, Mr. Awwal Bisallah, also noted that the partnership could position Nigeria to serve as a regional center of excellence, similar to established programs in Ghana and Kenya, while also encouraging the University to optimize the use of NAEC’s state-of-the-art research equipment.

Both teams described the MOU as a step towards strengthening Nigeria’s nuclear workforce and advancing the country’s role in Africa’s nuclear development.