By Peter Omopo
The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan nationals visiting Nigeria.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda.
According to the statement signed by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the policy grants Rwandan citizens visa-free access into Nigeria for lawful activities such as tourism, business and official engagements for a period not exceeding 30 days.
The immigration service explained that the move is in reciprocation of Rwanda’s existing visa-free arrangement for Nigerian citizens and is aimed at strengthening diplomatic and bilateral relations between both countries.
The NIS, however, clarified that Rwandan nationals intending to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved 30-day period would be required to obtain the appropriate visa through Nigerian embassies, high commissions or the Nigeria e-visa platform.
It added that all international entry points across the country, including airports, land borders and seaports, have been directed to immediately implement the policy in line with the presidential directive.
The service noted that the initiative is expected to promote intra-African mobility, tourism, trade and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Rwanda.
According to the statement, the NIS remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly and lawful migration in line with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
