ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has officially commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of the Republic of Rwanda.
Okay News reports that the directive follows an announcement made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali. This policy serves as a reciprocal gesture to the Rwandan government, which already offers Nigerian citizens 30-day visa-free access.
According to a statement signed by DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the Service Public Relations Officer, the exemption applies to Rwandan nationals visiting for lawful purposes, including tourism, business, and official engagements. Under the new guidelines, eligible travelers can enter Nigeria through any international airport, land border, or seaport without a prior visa for a stay not exceeding 30 days.
The NIS clarified that individuals intending to stay beyond the 30-day limit must still obtain the appropriate visa through the Nigeria e-Visa channel or a Nigerian diplomatic mission abroad. “This initiative reflects the strong diplomatic and bilateral relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Rwanda, while promoting intra-African mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation,” the statement noted.
The immediate rollout of this policy is expected to significantly reduce travel friction between the two nations, further aligning with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Travelers and businesses seeking assistance are encouraged to reach out to the NIS via their verified contact centers and social media handles.
