Anambra, Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority Partner on Safe Use of Radioactive Materials
By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening radiation safety and healthcare services through a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).
The commitment was made when a delegation from the NNRA, led by the South East Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Ekene Efienemokwu, paid a courtesy visit to the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, to discuss areas of collaboration in the regulation and safe use of radioactive materials.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Efienemokwu said the purpose of the meeting was to acquaint the commissioner with the agency's statutory mandate of regulating radioactive materials from the point of importation to their final use in hospitals, diagnostic centres and other licensed facilities.
He explained that the authority is responsible for ensuring that radioactive materials are safely handled and used in accordance with national regulations to protect healthcare workers, patients, the public and the environment from harmful effects of ionizing radiation.
Welcoming the delegation, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, commended the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority for its vital role in ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials across the country. He described the visit as timely and expressed the Anambra State Government's readiness to work closely with the agency in promoting radiation safety and protecting the health of residents.
Dr. Obidike noted that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, is committed to improving access to quality healthcare through strategic investments in modern medical facilities. He disclosed that the state is in the process of establishing an oncology centre and emphasized the need for collaboration with the NNRA to ensure the facility operates in line with national and international radiation safety standards.
Responding, Mr. Efienemokwu assured the commissioner of the NNRA's readiness to provide the necessary technical and regulatory support for the oncology centre and other healthcare facilities using radioactive materials in the state.
He further stated that the agency would continue to partner with the Anambra State Ministry of Health to strengthen radiation protection, promote regulatory compliance, and ensure a safer healthcare environment for both healthcare workers and patients.
The visit ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to sustained collaboration aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery, protecting the environment, and ensuring the safe and peaceful use of radioactive materials in Anambra State.
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