Rikwende Bitrus Kefas becomes first professional from Taraba State to earn prestigious international recognition

By NewsNexus

ABUJA — Taraba State has recorded another significant global milestone as Mr. Rikwende Bitrus Kefas, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations at the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), has been named among the Nuclear Institute’s Power of Professionals Top 100 Nuclear Science and Technology Influencers for 2026.

The prestigious international recognition celebrates outstanding professionals who are shaping the future of nuclear science and technology through research, innovation, advocacy, education, and strategic public engagement across the world.

With the honour, Kefas becomes the first professional from Taraba State to be listed among the world’s most influential voices in nuclear science and technology, further elevating the state’s profile on the global scientific stage.

A proud son of Ussa Local Government Area of Taraba State, Kefas is a graduate of the prestigious Federal Government College (FGC), Wukari, and the University of Maiduguri. Widely travelled, exceptionally articulate, and charismatic, he has distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s foremost science communicators, earning widespread respect for making complex concepts in atomic energy understandable to ordinary citizens.

Through his consistent educational outreach and strategic use of digital media, Kefas has built a reputation for translating highly technical nuclear science into simple, engaging, and accessible language. His insightful commentaries and educational content have significantly contributed to improving public understanding of the peaceful applications of nuclear technology, helping to dispel misconceptions while promoting informed conversations on the role of nuclear science in national development.

His growing influence has positioned him as one of Nigeria’s leading advocates for effective nuclear science communication, inspiring students, professionals, policymakers, and the wider public to appreciate the transformative potential of nuclear technology in healthcare, agriculture, energy, industry, environmental protection, and scientific research.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kefas comes from a respected and highly educated family in Taraba State, a background that has shaped his commitment to excellence, scholarship, integrity, and public service.

The Power of Professionals Top 100 is an annual recognition by the Nuclear Institute that honours exceptional professionals from across the global nuclear industry who are advancing conversations on nuclear innovation, safety, research, education, sustainability, and the peaceful use of atomic science to address global development challenges.

Reacting to the recognition, Kefas described the honour as a testament to the growing impact of science communication in Nigeria.

«”This recognition reflects the growing impact of nuclear advocacy on digital platforms and the strides Nigeria continues to make in nuclear science communication. I am honoured to be counted among this year’s distinguished list of global nuclear professionals,” he said.»

He also expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, particularly its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Dr. Anthony Ekedegwa, for fostering a culture of excellence and continuous professional development.

«”None of this would have been possible without the consistent support of our Chairman/CEO, whose commitment to scholarship, growth, and development continues to inspire excellence across the Commission,” Kefas added.»

About the Nuclear Institute

The Nuclear Institute is the United Kingdom’s leading professional membership body for the nuclear sector, representing more than 5,000 professionals working across energy, defence, medicine, research, and space technology. Established in 2009 through the merger of the Institute of Nuclear Engineers (INucE) and the British Nuclear Energy Society (BNES), the Institute promotes professionalism, ethical standards, continuous learning, and public confidence in the peaceful application of nuclear science through its internationally recognised Nuclear Professionalism Standard.

About the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission

The Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) is the nation’s apex institution responsible for coordinating the development and peaceful application of nuclear science and technology. The Commission plays a strategic role in advancing research, innovation, human capacity development, and international collaboration to harness nuclear technology for national development across critical sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, energy, industry, environmental management, and education.

For Taraba State, Kefas’ recognition represents more than an individual accomplishment. It is a testament to the state’s growing contribution to global scientific excellence and a source of inspiration for young people aspiring to build impactful careers in science, technology, innovation, and public service. His achievement reinforces the message that excellence, dedication, and effective communication can transcend borders and earn global recognition while advancing national development.