The Republic of Burundi has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening ties with Nigeria, focusing on investment, air connectivity, energy cooperation, and cultural exchange. The announcement was made by Burundi’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Edouard Nduwimana, during a press conference in Abuja.
Ambassador Nduwimana highlighted that Burundi remains politically stable and open for business, offering a gateway to the East African Community market. He invited Nigerian investors to explore opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, infrastructure, tourism, and agro-industry.
Key highlights from the conference included:
Industrial Projects: Plans for fertilizer production and new factories in Ogun and Nasarawa States.
Trade Expansion: Burundi exported over 20 containers of cowhide to Kano State in 2025 and is negotiating to introduce Burundian tea into Nigeria.
Air Connectivity: Partnerships between Burundi Airlines and Nigeria’s Bellagio Airlines are being explored to boost passenger and cargo transport.
Energy Cooperation: Efforts underway to revive Nigeria’s crude oil support program, which began in 2008 but was suspended in 2014.
Cultural Diplomacy: Initiatives to promote cultural exchange, arts, music, and festival participation between the two countries.
Security Collaboration: Both nations reaffirmed cooperation to combat terrorism and transnational crime, leveraging each country’s peacekeeping experience.
The Ambassador also stressed the impact of global conflicts, such as tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, on African economies, urging stronger regional cooperation and investment in renewable energy.
Ambassador Nduwimana expressed high expectations for the upcoming second session of the Permanent Mixed Commission for Cooperation between Burundi and Nigeria, emphasizing its role in boosting trade, education, tourism, and agro-industrial development.
The press conference underscored Burundi’s long-term vision to become an emerging economy by 2040 and a developed nation by 2060, with Nigeria positioned as a key partner in achieving these goals.
