Nigeria may adopt visa-free policy for Rwanda — Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says Nigeria is considering introducing a reciprocal visa-free arrangement for Rwandan citizens as part of efforts to strengthen African unity and cooperation.

Tinubu disclosed this on Wednesday during talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame after arriving in Kigali for the Africa CEO Forum.

The meeting took place at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa, where both leaders also agreed to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda.

In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the two presidents emphasised the need to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission signed by both countries in 2021.

They agreed that Nigeria would host the next session of the commission.

“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 read.

The leaders also discussed pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption initiatives and the fight against illicit drugs.

According to the statement, the discussions highlighted Tinubu’s commitment to regional integration and stronger cooperation among African countries.

Tinubu and Kagame further explored ways to operationalise the African Continental Free Trade Area between Nigeria and Rwanda.

The statement noted that both presidents have remained strong supporters of the continental trade agreement.

It also revealed that Nigeria is currently in discussions with RwandAir to create additional export opportunities for Nigerian businesses throughout Africa.

Nigeria had previously established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines as part of efforts to improve regional trade connectivity.

The Africa CEO Forum begins Thursday in Kigali, Rwanda.

Africans Angle News