Nigeria Implements 30-Day Visa Exemption for Rwandan Nationals

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan nationals, following a directive announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during the Africa CEO Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda.

According to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure the seamless enforcement of the new policy, which is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional integration between Nigeria and Rwanda.

The visa exemption is a reciprocal gesture in response to the Rwandan government’s existing visa-free entry arrangement for Nigerian citizens. Under the new directive, holders of Rwandan passports will be permitted to enter Nigeria without a visa for stays of up to 30 days.

The move is expected to boost trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between both African nations, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and broader continental cooperation.

The Nigeria Immigration Service stated that relevant commands and border control units have been adequately informed and equipped to facilitate the smooth implementation of the policy at all entry points across the country.