President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Paul Kagame have agreed to deepen diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Rwanda following a high-level meeting at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali ahead of the Africa CEO Forum.
The two African leaders reaffirmed their commitment to revitalising the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), first signed in 2021, describing it as a key framework for advancing mutual cooperation and shared development goals.
According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, both countries also agreed that Nigeria will host the next session of the commission as part of renewed efforts to strengthen bilateral engagement.
During discussions on consular relations, President Tinubu revealed that Nigeria is considering a reciprocal 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan citizens, mirroring Rwanda’s existing gesture toward Nigerians in line with the spirit of Pan-African unity and integration.
The meeting also focused on activating pending Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) covering tourism, anti-corruption collaboration, and the fight against illicit drugs, further reflecting both nations’ commitment to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.
In addition, Presidents Tinubu and Kagame exchanged ideas on expanding trade opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), reaffirming their support for stronger intra-African commerce.
Nigeria, which recently launched an air cargo partnership with Uganda Airlines, is also exploring new export and logistics opportunities with RwandAir to boost access for Nigerian businesses across Africa.
The Africa CEO Forum officially begins on Thursday in Kigali, Rwanda.
