By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Paul Kagame have agreed to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Rwanda. The two leaders reached the agreement on Wednesday in Kigali during President Tinubu’s visit to Rwanda for the Africa CEO Forum.
They met at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa, where they discussed trade, regional integration, visa policies, and pending bilateral agreements. Both presidents also agreed to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission to advance shared development goals.
Tinubu, Kagame Revive Joint Commission
During the meeting, both leaders stressed the importance of reactivating the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), signed in 2021. They described the commission as a strategic platform for improving cooperation between both countries.
Furthermore, President Tinubu confirmed that Nigeria will host the next JPMC meeting. The move aims to accelerate discussions on investment, trade, and diplomatic partnerships.
Nigeria Considers Visa-Free Entry for Rwandans
President Tinubu said Nigeria will seriously consider granting Rwandans a 30-day visa-free entry policy. He noted that the decision aligns with the spirit of Pan-African unity and regional cooperation.
Rwanda already offers Nigerians a 30-day visa-free stay. Therefore, Nigeria may introduce a reciprocal arrangement to strengthen people-to-people connections and business travel.
Nigeria, Rwanda Push AfCFTA Implementation
The two presidents also exchanged ideas on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) between Nigeria and Rwanda.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to boosting intra-African trade and expanding economic opportunities across the continent. They agreed that stronger trade partnerships will support industrial growth and regional prosperity.
Tinubu, Kagame Discuss Tourism and Anti-Corruption Agreements
In addition, the leaders reviewed pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption, and the fight against illicit drugs.
The discussions highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to African integration, mutual respect, and collective development.
Nigeria Explores Air Cargo Partnership With RwandAir
Nigeria is also discussing a possible air cargo partnership with RwandAir to improve export opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
Last year, Nigeria established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines. The proposed partnership with RwandAir could further expand market access for Nigerian exporters across Africa.
