The Burundian Ambassador to Nigeria, Edward Nduwimana, has appealed to the Nigerian government to consider restoring crude oil shipments to his country after more than a decade of suspension.

Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, Nduwimana recalled that both nations previously operated under a bilateral arrangement that enabled Nigeria to supply about 45,000 barrels of crude oil per day to Burundi between 2008 and 2014.

According to him, the arrangement was halted when Nigeria began reforms aimed at restructuring its oil and gas sector. He, however, expressed optimism that discussions are underway to revive the understanding in the interest of both countries.

The envoy noted that the earlier supply played a significant role in easing Burundi’s energy challenges at the time and helped stabilise critical sectors dependent on fuel availability.
Nduwimana said Burundi remains committed to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Nigeria and values the spirit of African cooperation that has defined relations between the two countries for years.

He added that his government believes Nigeria, known for promoting regional solidarity and shared development, would give favourable consideration to renewed collaboration in the energy sector.

The ambassador also reaffirmed Burundi’s readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation with Nigeria across various areas beyond energy, stressing that the relationship between the two nations has remained cordial and mutually respectful.