Nigeria Begins 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Rwandan Nationals

The Nigeria Immigration Service has announced the immediate implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for citizens of Rwanda entering Nigeria.

The policy follows a directive announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Africa CEO Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote regional integration.

In a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the Immigration Service said all necessary arrangements had been concluded for the implementation of the directive across the country’s international entry points.

Under the new arrangement, Rwandan nationals will be allowed entry into Nigeria without a visa for a period not exceeding 30 days for lawful activities, including tourism, business, and official engagements.

The Service, however, clarified that any Rwandan citizen seeking to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved 30-day period must obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission abroad, or via the Nigeria e-Visa platform.

According to the statement, airports, land borders, and seaports across the country have been directed to commence immediate enforcement of the policy in line with the Presidential directive.

The Immigration Service noted that the initiative reflects the strong diplomatic ties between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Rwanda, while also supporting intra-African mobility, tourism development, and economic cooperation in line with continental integration goals.

The agency reiterated its commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and lawful migration in line with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

For inquiries and assistance, the Service advised members of the public to contact its verified communication channels, including its official social media platforms and 24-hour contact centre lines.