President Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria will consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free entry policy for Nigerians as part of efforts to strengthen African integration and deepen bilateral relations between both countries.
Tinubu stated this on Wednesday during a meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali, Rwanda, shortly after arriving in the country for the Africa CEO Forum.
According to a statement issued by the President’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, including the revival of the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission, which was originally signed by the two countries in 2021.
The two presidents agreed that the commission remains an important platform for advancing shared objectives, with Nigeria expected to host its next meeting.
In reviewing consular matters, Tinubu said Nigeria would seriously consider granting Rwandans similar 30-day visa-free access in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
The leaders also discussed pending Memoranda of Understanding in tourism, anti-corruption and illicit drug control, as part of broader efforts to promote cooperation, mutual respect and shared prosperity.
Tinubu and Kagame further exchanged views on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area between both countries, reaffirming their support for stronger intra-African trade.
The statement added that Nigeria, which recently established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airways, is also holding discussions with RwandAir to create greater export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent.
The Africa CEO Forum is scheduled to begin on Thursday, May 14, in Kigali.
