Tinubu Considers Visa-Free Entry for Rwandans as Nigeria, Rwanda Deepen Ties

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria is considering a reciprocal 30-day visa-free entry arrangement for Rwandan citizens as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between both countries.

Tinubu made the disclosure during a meeting with Paul Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali ahead of the Africa CEO Forum.

According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, both leaders agreed to revive and strengthen the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission established between Nigeria and Rwanda in 2021 to advance bilateral cooperation.

The statement noted that Nigeria would host the next meeting of the commission as part of renewed diplomatic engagements between the two African nations.

“In reviewing consular matters, President Tinubu stated that Nigeria will seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free status for Nigerians in the spirit of Pan-Africanism,” the statement said.

The two presidents also discussed activating pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption collaboration and the fight against illicit drugs.

Tinubu and Kagame further exchanged ideas on strengthening implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement to boost intra-African trade and economic integration.

Nigeria is also reportedly exploring partnership opportunities with RwandAir to expand export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across Africa following an earlier air cargo corridor arrangement with Uganda Airlines.

The development reflects growing efforts by African leaders to encourage regional mobility, trade and economic cooperation across the continent. Rwanda currently maintains one of Africa’s most open visa policies for African travellers.

The Africa CEO Forum, where both leaders are expected to participate, officially begins in Kigali on Thursday.