Tinubu considers a reciprocal visa‑free agreement with Rwanda in a Pan‑African spirit

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

During a visit to Kigali for the Africa CEO Forum, President Bola Tinubu announced that Nigeria will examine the possibility of granting Rwandans a 30‑day visa‑free stay, mirroring the arrangement already in place for Nigerians in Rwanda. The move is framed as part of a broader Pan‑African initiative.

Both leaders also agreed to activate mechanisms that will deepen bilateral ties. At the Urugwiro Presidential Villa, Tinubu and Rwandan President Paul Kagame discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

A statement from presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the leaders underscored the need to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), signed in 2021, as a key platform for shared objectives. They further agreed that Nigeria would host the next JPMC meeting.

In reviewing consular matters, President Tinubu said Nigeria would seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30‑day visa‑free status for Nigerians in a Pan‑African spirit.

The statement also noted that the presidents talked about activating pending Memoranda of Understanding in tourism, illicit drugs, and anti‑corruption, highlighting Tinubu’s commitment to inter‑African integration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.

“Presidents Tinubu and Kagame exchanged ideas on operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) between the two countries. Both leaders remain steadfast in their support for this agreement,” the statement added.

Nigeria, which last year established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airways, is now in talks with RwandAir to expand export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent. The Africa CEO meeting begins on Thursday, May 14, 2023.

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