The Ambassador of Burundi to Nigeria, Edward Nduwimana, has called on Nigeria to urgently resume crude oil supply to his country, citing the adverse impact of the suspension on Burundi’s energy needs.
Nduwimana made the appeal during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, where he also urged both countries to convene the Permanent Mixed Commission for Cooperation to revive stalled agreements and strengthen bilateral relations.
Nigeria had previously supplied Burundi with about 45,000 barrels of crude oil per day under a bilateral arrangement that lasted from 2008 to 2014 before it was suspended amid reforms in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
The envoy said the agreement played a vital role in stabilising Burundi’s energy supply and supporting economic activities, noting that its suspension created a significant gap in the country’s energy capacity.
He expressed appreciation to Nigeria for the support provided during the period, stating that the arrangement helped mitigate the effects of Burundi’s energy deficit.
While acknowledging that the suspension occurred within the context of sectoral reforms, Nduwimana expressed optimism that Nigeria would consider restoring the partnership in the spirit of African solidarity and mutual benefit.
He disclosed that discussions are ongoing to revive the oil supply arrangement as part of broader efforts to deepen economic cooperation between both countries.
The ambassador emphasised the urgency of reconvening the Permanent Mixed Commission in 2026, noting that its last session was held in Bujumbura in 2021.
According to him, the proposed meeting would enable both governments to review existing agreements, address outstanding issues and develop a new framework for cooperation.
He added that the session is expected to drive progress across key sectors, including trade, education, tourism, mining and agro-industry, while also strengthening legal frameworks and sector-specific agreements to boost joint investments.
“Our ambition is to secure concrete commitments that deliver measurable benefits for both countries and their citizens,” he said.
Beyond diplomatic engagement, Nduwimana invited Nigerian businesses and investors to explore opportunities in Burundi, describing the country as an emerging investment destination in East Africa.
He noted that Burundi offers strategic access to the regional market of the East African Community and presents opportunities in agriculture, mining, energy, infrastructure and tourism.
Describing Burundi as stable and open for business, the envoy encouraged Nigerian investors to take advantage of the improving investment climate and establish long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.
The renewed push underscores Burundi’s commitment to restoring its energy cooperation with Nigeria while expanding bilateral relations into broader areas of trade, investment and regional integration.
