Nigeria has officially introduced a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan nationals under a new bilateral arrangement aimed at easing travel between both countries.
The announcement was made by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) via a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, on Friday.
This follows earlier consideration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant Rwandan citizens 30-day visa-free entry during his visit to Rwanda for the Africa CEO Forum, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and advance Pan-African integration.
According to the NIS, all necessary arrangements have been completed for the immediate implementation of the Presidential directive across all international entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports.
Under the policy, Rwandan nationals can now enter Nigeria without a visa for lawful purposes such as tourism, business, and official engagements, provided their stay does not exceed 30 days.
The statement noted that the visa exemption is a reciprocal gesture, reflecting Rwanda’s similar visa-free policy for Nigerian citizens, and is expected to further strengthen diplomatic ties between both nations.
The Service clarified that travelers seeking to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved period must obtain the appropriate visa through Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad or through the Nigeria e-Visa platform.
The NIS added that the initiative aligns with broader continental aspirations to boost intra-African mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation, while supporting Nigeria’s commitment to safe, orderly, and lawful migration under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The agency also encouraged members of the public seeking further clarification to contact the Service through its verified communication channels, including its official social media platforms, contact centre lines, and WhatsApp support services.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier indicated Nigeria’s readiness to consider a 30-day visa-free entry for Rwandan citizens as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and promote Pan-African integration.
Talks further covered trade, mobility, and pending MoUs on tourism, anti-corruption, and drug trafficking, alongside support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Nigeria is also exploring cooperation with RwandAir to expand cargo and export opportunities, following a similar arrangement with Uganda Airlines.