Finnish government shows high hopes on Nigeria’s energy sector

Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, has highlighted Finland’s interest in expanding cooperation with Nigeria in energy and other key sectors.

During the presentation of her Letters of Credence to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Friday, Ambassador Selin expressed Finland’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria.

Recognizing the importance of ongoing economic and political reforms for Nigeria’s advancement, Ambassador Selin commended the President’s leadership in driving these crucial changes.

“I salute you for all the ongoing reforms in the country. They are not easy. Even though it is painful, it is the only way Nigeria can progress. It is essential for the country,” she noted.

“We also have opportunities for Nigeria in energy. We can work and make it a realisable dream,” Selin stated in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

In his response, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Finnish government for its assistance in addressing security challenges, particularly in the recent apprehension of Simon Ekpa, a separatist leader known for his inflammatory rhetoric.

“I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have been through turbulent times, and we don’t want to promote terrorism,” President Tinubu told the Finnish ambassador.

“I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development. Our watchword is stability and cohesion to move the country forward.

“The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has informed me. I know what the rule of law means. The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals and values. We must respect the rule of law,” the President said.

The president reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles, ethical standards, and the supremacy of the law.

“Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations. The cooperation between our two countries is going very well now, and the National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,” Ambassador Selin supported.

Finland’s interest in Nigeria’s energy sector predates the recent geopolitical shifts. In June 2022, Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto expressed the country’s desire to utilize Nigeria’s substantial gas reserves.

This interest gained momentum following the European Union’s decision to reduce its reliance on Russian energy imports.

Foreign Minister Haavisto emphasized that, alongside other EU nations, Finland is actively seeking alternative sources of gas, recognizing Nigeria’s crucial role in the global energy landscape.

He also underscored potential areas for collaboration, including renewable energy technologies, educational exchange programs, and initiatives to diversify Nigeria’s economy.

Finland sees Nigeria as a key strategic partner in its efforts to diversify energy sources, particularly through the development of natural gas and renewable energy projects.

The recent arrest and ongoing trial of Simon Ekpa signify a deepening security cooperation between Nigeria and Finland to counter divisive actions. Furthermore, Finland seeks to enhance partnerships in education and other key economic sectors.

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