The Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) was established through the enactment of Act 46 of 1976 as a specialised agency for the promotion and development of nuclear technology. It has the mandate to develop the framework and technical pathway to explore, exploit and harness atomic energy for peaceful application in all its ramifications for the socio-economic development of Nigeria

The objective of NAEC is among others:

To streamline, harmonise, promote and coordinate research and development activities for capacity building and infrastructure development in nuclear technology. Fast-track and catalyse the process of development and deployment of nuclear power plants for electricity generation in Nigeria.