By Clement John
President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria is considering a reciprocal 30-day visa-free arrangement for Rwandan citizens, following Rwanda’s existing visa-free policy for Nigerians, as part of efforts to advance Pan-African integration.
The development emerged on Wednesday after President Tinubu met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali ahead of the 2026 Africa CEO Forum.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, both leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), initially established by the two countries in 2021, to drive cooperation in key sectors.
The statement noted that Nigeria would host the next meeting of the commission as part of renewed efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic ties.
“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 leaders also discussed the activation of pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption initiatives and the fight against illicit drugs, underscoring their commitment to stronger inter-African collaboration and shared prosperity.
Tinubu and Kagame further exchanged views on advancing the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement between both countries, reaffirming their support for regional economic integration.
As part of efforts to boost trade and exports across Africa, Nigeria is also exploring a partnership with RwandAir to expand cargo connectivity for Nigerian businesses across the continent.
Nigeria had previously established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines to facilitate intra-African trade.
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