The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan nationals entering Nigeria, following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced on Thursday that it had concluded all arrangements for the immediate enforcement of the policy across the country’s international entry points.
According to a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the development follows President Tinubu’s announcement at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, where he pledged to grant visa-free entry to Rwandan citizens in reciprocity for a similar gesture extended to Nigerians by the Rwandan government.
Under the bilateral arrangement, Rwandan nationals will now be allowed to enter Nigeria without a visa for up to 30 days for lawful activities such as tourism, business and official engagements.
The NIS, however, clarified that visitors intending to stay beyond the approved 30-day period must obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission abroad, or via the Nigeria e-Visa platform.
The immigration agency disclosed that all airports, land borders and seaports across the country have been directed to begin immediate implementation of the policy in line with the presidential directive.
The Service noted that the initiative reflects the growing diplomatic and bilateral ties between Nigeria and Rwanda, while also promoting intra-African mobility, tourism and economic cooperation in line with continental integration goals.
“The Service remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly and lawful migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read.
The NIS also urged members of the public seeking clarification or assistance to contact the agency through its verified communication channels, including its social media platforms and designated contact numbers.