Tinubu considers mutual visa waiver agreement with Rwanda in gesture of Pan-African unity

President Bola Tinubu has expressed Nigeria's willingness to reciprocate Rwanda's 30-day visa-free status for Nigerians, a gesture that embodies the principles of Pan-Africanism, as he met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Kigali, Rwanda, on Wednesday.

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The meeting between the two leaders took place at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa, where they discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, particularly in the context of the Africa CEO Forum, which President Tinubu attended.

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A statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga outlined the key takeaways from the meeting, including the leaders' commitment to reviving the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission, initially established in 2021, as a crucial platform for achieving their shared objectives.

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As part of their efforts to deepen cooperation, Presidents Tinubu and Kagame agreed that Nigeria would host the next meeting of the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission, marking a significant step forward in their bilateral engagement.

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The two leaders also explored opportunities for collaboration in various areas, including tourism, anti-corruption, and the fight against illicit drugs, with a focus on activating pending Memoranda of Understanding that would facilitate greater cooperation between their countries.

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Furthermore, Presidents Tinubu and Kagame exchanged ideas on how to operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Agreement between Nigeria and Rwanda, demonstrating their unwavering support for this landmark agreement.

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In a related development, Nigeria is currently in talks with RwandAir to establish a partnership that would enhance export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent, building on the air cargo corridor established with Uganda Airways last year.

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The Africa CEO Forum, which brought President Tinubu to Kigali, is scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 14, 2023, providing a platform for African leaders to discuss key issues and opportunities for economic growth and development.