President Bola Tinubu has revealed that Nigeria may soon introduce a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of Rwanda as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote regional integration across Africa.
The development was disclosed after Tinubu held talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali during the ongoing Africa CEO Forum.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the proposed arrangement would mirror Rwanda’s existing visa-free policy for Nigerians visiting the country for up to 30 days.
Nigeria, Rwanda Push for Stronger Cooperation
During the meeting, both leaders discussed ways to improve trade, mobility and institutional collaboration between the two countries.
Tinubu reportedly stated that Nigeria would seriously consider extending similar visa-free access to Rwandan citizens in the spirit of Pan-African cooperation and economic integration.
The two countries also agreed to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission established in 2021 to strengthen bilateral relations and government-to-government cooperation.
Nigeria is expected to host the next session of the commission as part of renewed diplomatic engagements.
- Focus on Trade, Tourism and Security
- Discussions between both leaders also covered:
- Tourism partnerships
- Anti-corruption cooperation
- Measures against illicit drug trafficking
- Expansion of trade and investment opportunities
Nigeria is additionally exploring partnership opportunities with RwandAir to improve export logistics and strengthen air cargo operations between both countries.
The move is expected to create more opportunities for Nigerian businesses and improve regional trade connectivity.
Tinubu Backs African Economic Integration
Tinubu and Kagame reaffirmed their support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stressing the need for African countries to reduce travel restrictions and improve economic cooperation across the continent.
The Nigerian president also recently criticised global financial systems during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, arguing that unfair financial structures, high borrowing costs and illicit financial flows continue to limit Africa’s industrial growth.
According to Tinubu, Africa contributes less than two percent to global manufacturing output because many countries still rely heavily on exporting raw materials instead of producing finished goods locally.
Why the Visa-Free Proposal Matters
If implemented, the visa-free policy could:
- Improve travel between Nigeria and Rwanda
- Boost tourism and business opportunities
- Encourage regional trade and investment
- Support Africa’s broader integration agenda
Analysts believe the move reflects growing efforts among African countries to strengthen economic ties and reduce barriers to movement within the continent.
- Bayo Onanuga