The Center for Energy Research and Training (CERT) of Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria has just acquired state-of-the-art equipment for the upgrade of the control and instrumentation system of the Power Reactor. Nigeria Research-1 (NIRR-1). This acquisition, worth 150 million naira, was made from the China Atomic Energy Institute, the designers of the research reactors, under an order from the International Agency for atomic energy (IAEA).
This equipment was offered following the irreparable destruction of the CERT computer control console a few years ago, and its reception took place last Friday. A team of four Chinese experts arrived in Zaria to install the improved systems within the center, work on which will begin on Monday.
Once completed, this project will increase the capabilities of research reactors in terms of operations, safety and utilization. Professor Sunday Jonah, Director of CERT, met with the Vice-Chancellor of the university to inform them of the arrival of the Chinese team and present the details of the project to them. The Chinese experts’ mission, led by Professor Yiguo Li of the Research Reactor Department of the China Atomic Energy Institute, is expected to end within the next ten days.
Professor Jonah highlighted during this meeting that Ahmadu Bello University is the only institution in Africa to have research reactors on its campus. He also clarified that the Nigerian Nuclear Energy Commission (NAEC) and the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRRA) were fully informed of the development.
This acquisition and upgrade of the NIRR-1 control and instrumentation system strengthens the positioning of Ahmadu Bello University as a major player in the field of nuclear research in Africa. It will make it possible to strengthen the safety and efficiency of operations carried out within the framework of nuclear energy research.
Ahmadu Bello University continues to invest in research and innovation, with the aim of contributing to the technological and scientific development of the nation. This acquisition reflects the university’s constant desire to put in place the best possible infrastructure to promote research and development in strategic areas such as nuclear energy. With this upgrade of its research reactor, CERT will be able to conduct more advanced research and thus increase collaboration with other national and international institutions in the field of nuclear energy.
Ahmadu Bello University thus demonstrates its commitment to academic excellence and contribution to the scientific and technological development of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.