Energy
Africa’s Nuclear Push Faces Growing Scrutiny as Experts Warn Nigeria Against Costly Energy Gamble
A coalition of African environmental activists, economists, legal experts, and civil society groups has warned that the growing push for nuclear energy across Africa could deepen debt, increase foreign dependence, and divert attention from the continent’s vast renewable energy potential.
The warning came during an expert workshop on new nuclear power plants organised by Renevlyn Development Initiative and Tipping Point North South in Lagos, where speakers urged journalists to investigate nuclear projects more critically and hold governments accountable over transparency, safety, and financing concerns.
The event, held at Event Place by Sweet Sensation, brought together campaigners and experts from Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States to discuss what participants repeatedly described as Africa’s “nuclear misadventure”.
Nigeria’s Nuclear Ambitions Under Fire
Opening the workshop, environmental activist Philip Jakpor said Nigeria’s proposed nuclear programme has largely operated without public scrutiny since discussions began nearly two decades ago.
According to him, Nigeria signed an agreement with Russian state-owned nuclear corporation Rosatom in 2007 to develop nuclear facilities capable of generating about 4,800 megawatts by 2035.
Jakpor argued that communities earmarked for the projects were not consulted before plans were announced publicly.
“Nigeria cannot properly secure existing oil infrastructure, yet we are discussing nuclear facilities in a country facing major security challenges,” he said.
He added that journalists and civil society organisations continue to struggle to obtain official information about the status, financing, and safety framework of the project.
The debate comes as Nigeria continues to battle chronic electricity shortages despite being Africa’s largest economy. The country currently generates roughly 4,000 megawatts for an estimated population of over 200 million people, with repeated national grid collapses worsening electricity access.
Experts Say Nuclear Energy Is a ‘False Climate Solution’
One of the strongest interventions at the event came from Deborah Burton, author of the report Africa’s Nuclear Energy Misadventure.
Burton argued that nuclear power is being marketed to African governments as a clean energy solution despite unresolved concerns over radioactive waste, environmental damage, financing, and community displacement.
“Africa has 60% of the world’s best solar resources, yet attention is shifting toward one of the most expensive and risky energy systems,” she said.
Her presentation outlined six major concerns surrounding nuclear expansion in Africa:
Long construction timelines that fail to address urgent energy needs
Health and environmental risks linked to radiation and waste
Massive financial costs that could undermine renewable investment
Corruption risks tied to large-scale international contracts
Community displacement and poor consultation processes
Geopolitical competition among global powers seeking influence in Africa
Burton also highlighted Ghana’s agreement with US-based NuScale Power for small modular reactors, warning that African countries could become testing grounds for competing foreign nuclear technologies.
She maintained that solar, wind, and geothermal power remain safer and more sustainable alternatives for the continent.
Fadhel Kaboub: ‘Africa Is Being Drawn Into a New Dependency Cycle’
Economist Fadhel Kaboub delivered one of the event’s most detailed critiques of Africa’s nuclear ambitions, framing the debate as part of a wider struggle over economic sovereignty.
Kaboub argued that the global push for nuclear projects in Africa is less about solving energy poverty and more about preserving geopolitical control and economic dependency.
“Africa is being positioned as the last frontier for a declining nuclear industry,” he said.
According to Kaboub, major global powers including Russia, China, France, the United States, Japan, and South Korea are competing for influence over Africa’s future energy infrastructure.
He argued that nuclear energy creates long-term dependency because African countries would rely on foreign governments and corporations for:
Fuel supply
Reactor maintenance
Insurance systems
Technical expertise
Security operations
Waste management
Kaboub cited figures from the International Renewable Energy Agency showing that Africa could potentially generate up to 1,000 times its projected electricity demand through renewable energy using existing technologies.
Yet despite this potential, he said Africa receives only about 1% of global renewable energy financing.
“The issue is not lack of resources. The issue is the political and economic structure that keeps Africa dependent on imported technologies,” he said.
Kaboub proposed what he described as “clean energy sovereignty” through decentralized renewable systems, public ownership of energy infrastructure, regional industrial cooperation, and technology transfer rather than technology imports.
He added that Africa’s energy transition should focus on practical outcomes such as powering hospitals, schools, irrigation systems, and small businesses instead of prestige megaprojects.
Kenyan Campaigners Cite Public Participation Failures
Speakers from Kenya detailed how community resistance campaigns successfully blocked a proposed nuclear plant in Uyombo before authorities reportedly shifted attention elsewhere.
Lance Mbani and Anthony Kingi said local communities only became aware of the project after information surfaced publicly.
The activists accused Kenyan authorities of failing to guarantee procedural environmental rights, including access to information and meaningful public consultation.
Mbani said the proposed site was initially located near ecologically sensitive coastal forests and marine ecosystems.
“Kenya already generates around 95% of its electricity from renewable sources. The focus should be on expanding community-owned renewable systems, not introducing nuclear risks,” he said.
The Kenyan campaigners credited local organising, legal training, and media partnerships for helping communities challenge the project.
Zambia Weighs Nuclear Future Despite Renewable Potential
Chansa Kaluba warned that Zambia’s growing interest in nuclear development could sideline the country’s significant renewable energy resources.
Kaluba said Zambia currently relies heavily on hydropower but has major untapped solar and wind capacity alongside roughly 3,000 hours of sunlight annually.
Despite this, the country has moved ahead with nuclear policy planning and international cooperation agreements with countries including the United States and South Korea.
Civil society organisations and faith groups in Zambia, he said, have already mobilised against proposed nuclear projects over fears of displacement and debt.
Russian Nuclear Influence Raises Geopolitical Questions
Russian activist Vladimir Slivyak described Rosatom as both an energy corporation and a strategic arm of the Russian state.
He said Russia dominates large portions of the global nuclear fuel market and uses state-backed financing to expand influence in developing countries.
“Technological dependence often becomes political dependence,” Slivyak warned.
He also alleged that Rosatom personnel have been involved in occupied Ukrainian nuclear facilities since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Nuclear Power and Climate Politics
South African activist Makoma Lekalakala challenged claims that nuclear energy represents a climate-friendly transition pathway.
Lekalakala argued that uranium mining, fuel processing, and plant construction create significant carbon emissions and environmental damage often excluded from public discussions.
She warned that African governments pursuing nuclear energy could become trapped in long-term debt while still failing to solve energy access challenges.
“Nuclear is too slow and too expensive for the urgency of Africa’s electricity crisis,” she said.
Journalists Urged to Investigate Nuclear Deals
Closing the workshop, environmental lawyer Chima Williams urged journalists to pursue investigative reporting on nuclear agreements and use freedom of information laws to uncover hidden details.
Williams said governments often manage nuclear programmes secretly while publicly denying their scope.
“Journalists must rely on facts and legal protections while asking difficult questions,” he said.
He argued that partnerships between reporters, lawyers, and civil society groups would be critical in ensuring public accountability as African governments continue exploring nuclear partnerships.
Why the Debate Matters
The discussion reflects a broader debate unfolding across Africa as governments seek solutions to chronic electricity shortages, rising energy demand, and climate pressures.
Countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Egypt, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Namibia, and Morocco have all announced varying levels of nuclear interest, while South Africa remains the continent’s only operator of a commercial nuclear power plant.
Supporters argue nuclear energy could provide stable baseload electricity and reduce fossil fuel dependence. Critics, however, say Africa risks repeating cycles of foreign dependency while ignoring cheaper and faster renewable alternatives.
Nigeria’s Senate on Wednesday screened Minister of Power-designate, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, with lawmakers focusing heavily on how he plans to address the country’s long-running electricity challenges.
During the screening, senators highlighted Tegbe’s background in infrastructure and public sector reform, saying his cross-sector experience could support efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s struggling power sector.
Nigeria continues to face widespread blackouts, weak electricity distribution, low metering penetration, and recurring national grid collapses — issues that have affected businesses, households, and economic growth for years.
Speaking during the session, Tegbe described electricity as central to national development.
“Electricity is not just a sector. It is the foundation of productivity, dignity, and national confidence,” he said.
He admitted there was no immediate solution to Nigeria’s power crisis but insisted that consistent reforms and disciplined implementation could improve the situation.
Why Nigeria’s Electricity Crisis Matters
Nigeria’s unreliable power supply remains one of the country’s biggest economic and social challenges.
Small businesses spend heavily on diesel and petrol generators, while manufacturers frequently cite unstable electricity as a major obstacle to growth and investment.
Energy analysts say improving electricity generation and distribution could significantly reduce business costs, improve productivity, and support job creation.
The power sector has also struggled with mounting debt, gas supply shortages, ageing infrastructure, and low revenue collection.
Tegbe’s Reform Priorities
During the screening, Tegbe outlined several priority areas he said would guide his administration if confirmed.
These include:
Improving gas supply to boost electricity generation
Strengthening national grid reliability
Enforcing accountability among electricity distribution companies
Accelerating nationwide metering
Restoring financial discipline across the sector
“We will replace uncertainty with clarity, inefficiency with discipline, and promises with measurable progress,” Tegbe said.
He also pledged to begin immediate diagnostic reviews and consultations with stakeholders across the industry.
According to him, some operational improvements could become visible within three months, while broader reforms — including restoring investor confidence and improving metering — may take up to one year.
Industry Expectations and Public Concerns
Power sector stakeholders have repeatedly called for stronger policy coordination between government agencies, electricity distribution companies, and gas suppliers.
Many Nigerians are also expected to closely monitor Tegbe’s performance, especially after years of repeated reform promises by successive administrations.
Consumers continue to complain about estimated billing, poor service delivery, and rising electricity tariffs despite unstable supply.
Energy experts say any meaningful improvement would require sustained investment, regulatory enforcement, and stronger collaboration between the federal government and private sector operators.
Commitment to Accountability
Tegbe told lawmakers he intends to work closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to deliver reforms.
“I will be accountable for progress, responsible in communication, and disciplined in execution,” he said.
The Senate screening ended with his nomination moving to the next stage of confirmation.
What Happens Next?
If confirmed by the Senate, Tegbe will take over leadership of one of Nigeria’s most challenging ministries at a time when citizens and businesses are demanding urgent improvements in electricity supply.
Analysts say early actions on grid stability, metering, and gas supply will likely shape public perception of his tenure.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Federal Capital Territory Command has warned petroleum dealers against fuel adulteration, pump manipulation and hoarding, saying such practices endanger lives and undermine public trust in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector.
FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu issued the warning during a meeting in Abuja with officials of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria, who visited the command headquarters to seek stronger collaboration on security and intelligence sharing.
Odumosu said the adulteration of petroleum products often leads to disasters, adding that the economic gains from such illegal activities are outweighed by the risks to public safety.
“Such actions are criminal in nature and punishable by law,” he said.
The commandant also criticised fuel station operators who allegedly tamper with dispensing pumps to deliver less fuel than customers pay for.
Why it matters
Nigeria has faced recurring concerns over fuel quality, fuel scarcity, illegal storage and sharp practices in the downstream petroleum sector.
Experts say adulterated fuel can damage vehicles, increase fire outbreaks and worsen public distrust in fuel distribution systems. Consumers have also repeatedly complained about inaccurate fuel dispensing at filling stations, especially during periods of supply shortages.
Odumosu said the NSCDC, as the lead agency responsible for protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, would continue surveillance operations across the Federal Capital Territory.
“We are dedicated to the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure as well as lives and property of people,” he said.
“The Command is poised to work with you as far as the interest of the masses is your priority.”
He added that NSCDC personnel are on “24/7 surveillance and patrols” across Abuja and surrounding communities.
Warning against hoarding and roadside sales
The NSCDC commandant urged petroleum marketers to discourage hoarding and avoid selling products to roadside traders who often store fuel in unsafe residential environments.
Safety advocates have long warned that improper storage of petrol in homes and informal retail points increases the risk of explosions and deadly fires, particularly in densely populated urban communities.
Odumosu also said stronger collaboration with petroleum retailers could improve intelligence gathering and help security agencies track suspicious purchases of fuel products.
According to him, unusual bulk purchases by unidentified individuals could provide leads for uncovering criminal hideouts or illegal operations.
“A robust relationship with associations like yours is imperative,” he said.
PETROAN seeks closer security partnership
Speaking during the visit, Nicholas Kanwanya, leader of the delegation from PETROAN’s FCT chapter, said petroleum retailers play a critical role in ensuring steady energy supply to citizens, businesses and government institutions.
Kanwanya commended the NSCDC for maintaining security within the Federal Capital Territory and described the agency’s vigilance as essential to economic activity in Abuja.
“We are here to strengthen the bridges of communication between the energy sector and our intelligence community,” he said.
He said the association was seeking stronger collaboration in areas including real-time intelligence sharing, conflict resolution and enforcement support.
Kanwanya also pledged the association’s support for security operations, saying petroleum retailers were ready to serve as “the eyes and ears” of authorities within the downstream sector.
Industry and public perspective
Energy analysts say improved cooperation between regulators, security agencies and fuel marketers could help address illegal practices in the downstream sector, especially as Nigeria continues reforms in the petroleum industry.
Motorists and residents in Abuja have frequently raised concerns about fuel quality, pricing inconsistencies and alleged under-dispensing at some retail outlets.
Consumer rights groups have also called for tougher enforcement and more transparent monitoring systems at filling stations nationwide.
What happens next?
The renewed collaboration between the NSCDC and PETROAN is expected to focus on:
Intelligence sharing on suspicious fuel transactions
Enforcement against fuel adulteration and hoarding
Monitoring of dispensing pump standards
Protection of petroleum infrastructure in Abuja
Public safety awareness around fuel storage and handling
Industry observers say stricter enforcement could improve consumer confidence and reduce safety risks in the capital city.
Boca Energy Resources Ltd. has reaffirmed its commitment to innovation and operational excellence as it joined global celebrations for World Creativity and Innovation Day 2026.
The company said creativity, technology, and forward-looking strategies are critical to driving growth and sustainability in Nigeria’s evolving energy sector.
Why it matters
Nigeria’s energy industry is under pressure to improve efficiency, adopt cleaner solutions, and meet rising demand.
Industry analysts say companies that prioritise innovation and digital transformation are more likely to remain competitive and attract
Boca Energy’s message reflects a broader shift among energy firms seeking to align with global sustainability and efficiency standards.
Driving excellence through innovation
In a statement to stakeholders, Boca Energy said creativity remains central to solving complex industry challenges and improving operational efficiency.
The company said it is focusing on:
Innovative engineering solutions to enhance performance
Digital transformation initiatives to optimise operations
Sustainable practices aligned with global energy standards
Continuous improvement and talent development
“Creativity remains central to solving complex industry challenges, improving efficiency, and delivering value across operations.”
Building a culture of creativity
Boca Energy said fostering innovation goes beyond strategy and requires empowering employees.
The company stressed the need to encourage staff to think beyond traditional approaches, collaborate, and adapt to change.
“Building a culture of innovation requires empowering employees to think beyond conventional boundaries.”
Experts say organisational culture plays a key role in determining whether innovation efforts succeed or fail.
Aligning with global innovation goals
World Creativity and Innovation Day, marked annually, recognises creativity as a driver of economic development and problem-solving.
Boca Energy said aligning with global initiatives strengthens its mission to support Nigeria’s industrial growth and long-term energy sustainability.
Energy policy observers note that such alignment can also improve international partnerships and access to new technologies.
What’s next
The company said it will continue to leverage innovation to improve resilience and deliver long-term value.
As Nigeria pushes for energy transition and industrial growth, stakeholders will be watching how companies translate innovation commitments into measurable outcomes.
About Boca Energy Resources Ltd.
Boca Energy Resources Ltd. is a provider of integrated energy solutions, focused on delivering efficient and sustainable services across Nigeria’s energy sector.
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