The Nigeria Immigration Service has announced the immediate implementation of a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of Rwanda travelling to Nigeria, following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The new policy, which takes effect immediately at all international entry points nationwide, was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by the Service Public Relations Officer of the NIS, Akinsola Akinlabi.
According to the statement, the decision followed President Tinubu’s announcement during the Africa CEO Forum held in Kigali, where he said Nigeria would reciprocate the visa-free access already granted to Nigerian citizens by the Rwandan government.
Under the arrangement, Rwandan nationals will be permitted to enter Nigeria without a visa for up to 30 days for lawful purposes, including tourism, business engagements and official visits.
The immigration agency, however, clarified that visitors intending to stay beyond the approved period would be required to obtain the appropriate visa either through a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission abroad or via the Nigeria e-Visa platform.
The NIS stated that all airports, land borders and seaports across the country had been directed to commence immediate implementation of the policy in compliance with the presidential directive.
According to the Service, the initiative reflects the strengthening diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda and is expected to boost intra-African mobility, tourism and economic cooperation in line with broader continental integration objectives.
“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 added.
The NIS also advised members of the public seeking clarification or assistance on the policy to contact the agency through its verified communication channels, including its official social media platforms and 24-hour contact centre lines.
