Epstein explored Nigerian oil deals but feared being defrauded

Newly released FBI documents reveal that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein considered investing in Nigeria’s crude oil market but expressed caution over potential fraud.

Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, includes a 20 September 2010 email from David Stern to Epstein outlining a lucrative opportunity to broker or “flip” Nigerian crude oil to China, with estimated profits of $6 million.

Stern referenced an intermediary, “PA,” who suggested meeting individuals with access to the oil.

“This seems very fishy (as my boss JEE would say),” Epstein reportedly wrote, reflecting skepticism about the deal.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has long faced challenges with corruption and black-market oil trading, despite recent efforts by NNPC Limited to increase transparency through audited accounts.

The emails are part of a broader tranche of Epstein correspondence showing his interactions with wealthy and influential figures, including discussions about business, investments, and trips to Nigeria.

In September 2010, Epstein received a separate email from George Reenstra, founder of Aircraft Service Group, detailing a sudden trip to Nigeria to meet then-President Goodluck Jonathan.

Reenstra noted that the meeting was mandatory but did not confirm whether it eventually took place.

The release of these documents comes years after Epstein’s 2019 death, when he was awaiting trial on sex trafficking and conspiracy charges.

Calls for transparency intensified after President Donald Trump assumed office, highlighting Epstein’s connections to high-profile individuals including Trump, Bill Clinton, Elon Musk, and Prince Andrew.

Among the files, correspondence shows Epstein inviting Prince Andrew to dine at Buckingham Palace and offering introductions to young women, contradicting the prince’s earlier claims of limited contact with Epstein after 2010.

The documents provide further insight into Epstein’s global network of wealthy associates and his business interests, including attempts to navigate Nigeria’s complex oil market.