Africa-Press. The Nigerian Immigration Service has announced that it has completed the necessary arrangements to implement a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan citizens wishing to enter Nigeria.
Akinola Akinlabi, a public relations officer at the Immigration Service, stated in a statement that this directive follows President Bola Tinubu’s announcement during the African CEOs Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda.
He explained that President Tinubu granted Rwandan citizens a visa exemption in response to a similar initiative from the Rwandan government towards Nigerian citizens.
According to Akinlabi, under the bilateral agreement, Rwandan citizens will be allowed to enter Nigeria without a visa for a period not exceeding 30 days for legitimate purposes. He noted that these purposes include tourism, business, and official visits.
Akinlabi added that any Rwandan citizen wishing to stay in Nigeria for more than the permitted 30 days is required to obtain the necessary visa. He stated, “This can be done through the Nigerian embassy or high commission abroad, or via the Nigerian electronic visa platform.”
The spokesperson for the Immigration Department clarified that all international entry points in the country have been directed to immediately implement this policy, in line with the presidential directive. These entry points include airports, land borders, and seaports.
Akinlabi pointed out that this initiative reflects the strength of diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, and that this policy will also enhance mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation within the African continent, in line with its aspirations.
He stated, “The service remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly, and legal migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”
