Nigeria Implements 30-Day Visa Exemption for Rwandan Nationals

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan nationals. This decision was announced by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) following a directive from President Bola Tinubu, who made the initial declaration at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda. The new policy allows Rwandan citizens to enter Nigeria without a visa for lawful purposes, including tourism, business, and official engagements, for stays not exceeding 30 days. The NIS stated that this move reciprocates a similar visa-free arrangement previously established by the Rwandan government for Nigerian citizens, highlighting strengthened diplomatic and bilateral relations between the two nations. Individuals wishing to stay longer than the approved 30-day period must obtain the appropriate visa through Nigerian embassies or the e-visa channel. The agency has directed all international entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports, to immediately enforce this policy. This initiative aims to promote intra-African mobility, boost tourism, and enhance economic cooperation, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and international best practices for safe and orderly migration.