Amidst the intensifying Russia-Ukraine conflict, European countries are being compelled to seek alternative oil sources due to Nigeria’s struggles with fulfilling oil contracts, according to the outgoing French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Emmanuelle Blatmann.
In a recent interview in Abuja with select media representatives, Blatmann reflected on missed opportunities for Nigeria in the energy sector, particularly during the Ukraine crisis.
European countries, in desperate need of diversifying their energy sources, initially turned to Nigeria.
However, due to the country’s struggles with oil bunkering and an inability to meet both existing contracts and OPEC quotas, these nations were forced to look elsewhere.
She said:
She further mentioned that the rampant oil theft led to the shutdown of several oil exploration companies, questioning the sustainability of such a business environment.
Blatmann also highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a global economic powerhouse, hindered by persistent security challenges.
Blatmann, poised to assume her new role as Director for Africa and the Indian Ocean at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, emphasized the critical role of addressing Nigeria’s security issues in attracting international business.
