The Ambassador of Burundi to Nigeria, Edward Nduwimana, has made a request for Nigeria to promptly recommence its crude oil supply to Burundi, emphasizing that the suspension of this long-standing agreement severely impacts the country's energy capabilities.
During a press interaction with journalists in Abuja, Nduwimana also advocated for the urgent reconvening of the Permanent Mixed Commission for Cooperation between the two nations, aiming to revive halted agreements and foster new economic partnerships.
Previously, Nigeria delivered approximately 45,000 barrels of crude oil per day to Burundi under a bilateral agreement in effect from 2008 until 2014, when it ceased amid reforms within Nigeria’s oil sector.
The ambassador noted that this arrangement had been crucial for maintaining Burundi’s energy supply and bolstering economic activities, stating that its cessation has led to a substantial gap in the country's energy requirements.
"Burundi expresses appreciation to the Nigerian populace and their institutions for the support rendered since 2008 through crude oil supplies," he stated.
He added, “This assistance helped alleviate the impact of the energy shortfall in my country. We acknowledge that the 2014 suspension was part of a broader effort by the government to restructure the sector.”
Despite this disruption, Nduwimana remains hopeful that Nigeria will consider reinstating the arrangement in the spirit of African unity and mutual benefit. He mentioned that discussions are currently underway to revitalize the partnership as part of comprehensive efforts to enhance bilateral relations.
The ambassador highlighted the necessity of reconvening the cooperation commission within 2026, noting that its last meeting took place in Bujumbura in 2021. He argued that this gathering would offer a platform to revisit past commitments, address lingering issues, and create a new path for collaboration.
"The upcoming session will mark a significant advancement in strengthening the bilateral cooperation between Burundi and Nigeria," he asserted.
Nduwimana elaborated that during this engagement, focus areas would include trade, education, tourism, mining, and agro-industry, alongside improving the legal frameworks necessary for supporting joint ventures and investment flows.
“Our goal is to secure tangible commitments that yield real benefits for our nations and their citizens,” he declared.
Furthermore, Nduwimana urged Nigerian enterprises and investors to discover investment opportunities in Burundi, which he described as an emerging investment hub in East Africa.
He emphasized that Burundi acts as a gateway to the East African Community market and presents possibilities in various sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, infrastructure, and tourism.
"Burundi is a stable nation, open for business, and dedicated to enhancing its investment environment," he remarked.
This renewed push illustrates Burundi's resolve to restore its energy collaboration with Nigeria while expanding engagements in trade, investment, and regional integration.
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