Delegates attending African Youth Nuclear Summit in Abuja, Nigeria on 25/11/2025.
The African Young Generation Network (AYGN) hosted the “5th African Youth Nuclear Summit” in Abuja, Nigeria from 25 to 28 November 2025 under the theme “From Atoms to Impact”.
The summit recognizes the vital role young people play in shaping the future of Africa, and seeks to build their capacity, ignite their interest, and connect them with experts, institutions, and opportunities in nuclear science and its applications
The youth summit was attended by young professionals, mentors, and experts to explore nuclear innovations in solving real challenges regarding energy, health, agriculture, industry and the environment.
Delivering a statement virtually to the summit, AFCONE Chairperson H.E. Gaspard Liyoko MBOYO called for Africa’s youth to be at the forefront, not only as beneficiaries but as active contributors, innovators, and future leaders in the nuclear science and technology space.
“Impressive skills and education are already acquired by the African youth. The transformative pathways must include Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). These are essential for empowering Africa’s youth in light of global shifts in artificial intelligence (AI) and the green transition”, AFCONE Chairperson said in his opening remarks to the young professionals.
The events were attended by Mr. William D. Magwood, Director General for OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), Mr. Gashaw Gebeyehu the IAEA Head of Division for Africa among other State and governments officials.
President of African Young Generation Network (AYGN) Dr. Raphael Chesori pose for attending the Summit in Abuja, Nigeria on 25/11/2025
AFCONE Chairperson pointed out that access to energy is a fundamental prerequisite for sustained economic growth, poverty reduction, employment opportunities and improved quality of life across the continent.
He further stated that energy access is critical enabler of national economic and social development goals. Energy promotes industrial growth, enhances productivity, facilitates agricultural improvements, fosters growth of small businesses and attracts investment.
He emphasised that African States adopted the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty, to ensure no nuclear weapons are developed, tested, or stationed on the continent. The Pelindaba Treaty is the African guarantee of regional peace and security. The Treaty collectively represents the continent commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, peaceful nuclear cooperation, and security.
He concluded his address by adding that the Pelindaba Treaty is considered a success story, as it has garnered commitment to Non-Proliferation and ratification by 44 African states, besides being signed by 53 African Union member states. This reflects a strong shared normative framework against nuclear weapons on the continent.