The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals.
This follows the announcement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, reciprocating a similar gesture by the Rwandan government towards Nigerian citizens.
In a statement signed by the NIS Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, on Friday, the Service affirmed that it has completed all arrangements for the directive’s implementation.
“Under this bilateral arrangement, 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 statement said.
However, Akinlabi explained that individuals seeking to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved 30-day period would be required to obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy, a High Commission abroad, or the Nigeria e-Visa channel.
He also disclosed that all international entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports, had been directed to commence immediate implementation of the policy in line with the presidential directive.
The spokesperson noted that the 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 in line with continental aspirations.
The Service reiterated its commitment to facilitating safe, orderly, and lawful migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
