Niger Nuclear Regulatory Authority Fellows Embark on Scientific Visit to NRA

The Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) hosted three fellows from the Niger Nuclear Regulatory Authority for a week-long Scientific Visit from 17th to 21st February 2025. The visit aimed to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration between the two regulatory bodies, focusing on key aspects of nuclear and radiological regulation, security, and safeguards.

The visit commenced with discussions on Ghana’s regulatory framework, emphasizing oversight of radiological facilities, nuclear installations, and the development of legal instruments such as laws, regulations, and guidelines. Presentations covered NRA’s integrated management system, human resource development initiatives, and implementation of international legal instruments.

The second day focused on nuclear security measures, including security frameworks for radiological and nuclear facilities, insider threat mitigation, and the importance of clearly defining roles in nuclear security. Other key topics included physical protection systems, cybersecurity considerations, nuclear security response, and transport security measures.

On the third day, the fellows explored safeguards and non-proliferation measures, including Ghana’s implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), safeguards legal frameworks, and the Additional Protocol. Discussions also covered the roles of the State System of Accounting for and Control of Nuclear Material (SSAC) and stakeholder engagement strategies.

The fourth day highlighted essential regulatory functions such as review and assessment, inspections, enforcement, emergency preparedness, and collaboration with relevant government agencies. Public education initiatives, international cooperation, and the role of internal audits in NRA’s regulatory activities were also discussed.

The final day provided an opportunity for the visiting fellows to interact with key individuals at NRA. These interactions facilitated deeper knowledge sharing and allowed for reflections on the visit. The engagement concluded with discussions on strengthening future collaborations between the two regulatory authorities.

The NRA remains committed to fostering international partnerships and capacity-building efforts that enhance nuclear safety, security, and regulatory excellence. The successful completion of this visit marks another milestone in international cooperation and shared commitment to best regulatory practices.