A group, The Science for the Nation, has called on the Federal Government not to renew a second term for Dr. Yau Usman Idris, who has completed his five years in office as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA).
The group says the agency has become merely corrupt under Dr. Yau, who lacks a deeper understanding of developing the center to assist with the country’s epileptic power supply issues.
The pro-science civil group, in its statement signed by Engr. Abiodun Adepeju, expresses dismay that Nigerians have been unable to enjoy regular power supply since the nation’s independence, adversely affecting the economy.
Abiodun noted that power is fundamental and necessary for serious industrialization in any country. Therefore, the inadequacy of power has hindered Nigeria’s economic growth.
He explained that today, South Africa and Egypt have opted for nuclear power as part of measures to address the electricity crisis.
According to him ,Nigeria should be in a similar position, but unfortunately, the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, the body tasked with promoting this agenda, is dormant due to deeply corrupt management and a lack of understanding of how nuclear energy can resolve Nigeria’s electricity problems.
“Blaming politicians alone is insufficient; the technocrats must also take responsibility. It’s evident that under the former Kaduna State commissioner, the NNRA is unable to stand up and redirect the country on the path to nuclear power utilization, despite Nigeria having sufficient resources to leverage this to its advantage.
“Although the former DG of NNRA, Dr. Yau Usman Idris, who some in the scientific community describe as a saboteur, boasts of his connection to Vice President Kashim Shettima, we also call on the Vice President to consider rewarding him in another capacity.
“Dr. Yau Usman Idris has completed his five-year term in office, and his performance has been unsatisfactory. It’s time to bid farewell to him and ensure the restructuring and reorganization of the NNRA for national benefit.”