The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa-free policy for citizens of Rwanda as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and encourage easier movement across Africa.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Nigeria Immigration Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinlabi Akinsola.
The statement, titled, “Nigeria implements 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals,” confirmed that the new policy followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement at the Africa CEO Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda.
According to the Immigration Service, the initiative is based on a reciprocal arrangement between both countries and also reflects Rwanda’s earlier visa gesture towards Nigerians.
Explaining the new directive, the NIS stated that:
“Rwandan nationals may enter Nigeria without a visa for a period not exceeding thirty (30) days for lawful purposes, including tourism, business, and official engagements.”
The agency, however, clarified that any Rwandan citizen seeking to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved 30-day period must apply for the appropriate visa either through Nigerian embassies or the country’s e-visa platform.
To ensure immediate compliance with the Presidential directive, the Immigration Service said all border control formations nationwide had been instructed to begin enforcement without delay.
“All international entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports, have been directed to commence immediate implementation of the policy in line with the Presidential directive,” the statement added.
The NIS noted that the visa waiver forms part of broader efforts aimed at improving bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Rwanda, while supporting regional integration across the continent.
“This initiative reflects the strong diplomatic and bilateral relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Rwanda, while promoting intra-African mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation,” the statement added.
The Service further reaffirmed its commitment to effective migration management, stating that the policy is in line with international best practices and the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda.