Burundi Eyes Stronger Ties with Nigeria: Investment, Trade, and Culture on the Rise

By Iyojo Ameh

Burundi is ramping up cooperation with Nigeria, with a focus on trade, investment, culture, and security, His Excellency Ambassador Edouard Nduwimana of Burundi to Nigeria announced at a press briefing in Abuja.

The Ambassador highlighted Burundi’s stability under President Major General Evariste Ndayishimiye and its active role in African peacekeeping. He said the two countries share strong diplomatic ties, reinforced by decades of high‑level visits, agreements, and cultural exchanges.

On the economic front, Burundi is opening doors for Nigerian investors across agriculture, energy, mining, infrastructure, telecommunications, and tourism.

Efforts are underway to revive a historic oil allocation agreement, while Nigerian investors, including Aliko Dangote and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, have already engaged in projects such as fertilizers, energy, and fuel supply.

Burundian businesses are also investing in Nigeria, with fertilizer facilities planned in Ogun and Nasarawa states.

Cultural and educational links are strong, with Burundian students attending Nigerian universities and Nigerian institutions operating in Burundi.

The Burundian drum, a UNESCO recognized cultural symbol, has featured prominently in Nigerian cultural events.

Security cooperation remains a priority, with joint efforts to tackle terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational crime. Around fifteen Burundian military officers are scheduled for an April 2026 study visit to Nigeria to exchange expertise.

Ambassador Nduwimana acknowledged challenges, including limited air transport and logistics, and stressed that the second session of the Permanent Mixed Commission for Cooperation would focus on removing obstacles and deepening bilateral partnerships.

He also noted the global impact of conflicts such as the Iran‑US crisis on commodity prices, urging African nations to diversify trade and invest in sustainable energy.

“Burundi is open for business and invites Nigerian investors to explore opportunities in a spirit of African solidarity and shared prosperity,” Ambassador Nduwimana concluded.