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By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja | Media360Impact
The Republic of Burundi has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria as it celebrated the 64th Anniversary of its Independence in Abuja.
Speaking at the anniversary reception, Burundi’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Édouard Nduwimana, described the occasion as a celebration of the country’s journey toward peace, stability and sustainable development while highlighting the growing partnership between Burundi and Nigeria.
The envoy thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria, members of the diplomatic corps and international partners for their continued friendship and cooperation with Burundi.
Speaking on this year’s Independence Day theme, “Let us love our country and make it loved by others,” Ambassador Nduwimana urged citizens across Africa to embrace patriotism, unity and responsible leadership.
He said Burundi has made significant progress in governance, diplomacy and economic development, adding that the country is pursuing an ambitious national vision of becoming an emerging economy by 2040 and a developed nation by 2060 under the leadership of President Évariste Ndayishimiye.
The ambassador also extended an invitation to Nigerian investors to explore investment opportunities in Burundi, particularly in agriculture, mining, energy, tourism, manufacturing, infrastructure and the digital economy.
According to him, ongoing reforms, improved security and political stability have created an enabling environment for businesses and foreign investments.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Babagana Wakil congratulated the Government and people of Burundi on attaining 64 years of independence.
He conveyed the goodwill of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, who was unable to attend due to official engagements.
Wakil said Nigeria remains committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Burundi through diplomatic engagement, educational partnerships, technical assistance and regional cooperation.
He recalled that President Évariste Ndayishimiye visited Nigeria twice in 2023, including for the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on the political situation in Niger Republic.
He also highlighted exchanges involving the First Ladies of both countries, military cooperation through study visits by Burundian officers, and existing agreements covering technical manpower development and education.
According to the Nigerian government, both countries remain committed to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, regional integration, peace and security for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
The event concluded with renewed commitments by both governments to deepen diplomatic relations, promote African unity and strengthen cooperation across key sectors.
