The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the immediate implementation of a 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals entering Nigeria.
The directive follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement during the Africa CEO Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda.
According to the NIS, the policy is in reciprocity to a similar visa-free arrangement previously granted to Nigerian citizens by the Rwandan government.
In a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, on Friday, the immigration agency confirmed that all necessary arrangements had been concluded for immediate enforcement of the directive.
Under the new arrangement, Rwandan citizens can enter Nigeria without a visa for up to 30 days for lawful purposes such as tourism, business and official engagements.
The Service, however, clarified that individuals seeking to stay beyond the approved period must obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy, High Commission or the Nigeria e-Visa platform.
“Individuals seeking to remain in Nigeria beyond the approved 30-day period will be required to obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission abroad, or the Nigeria e-Visa channel,” the statement noted.
The NIS also disclosed that all international entry points across the country, including airports, land borders and seaports, had been directed to begin immediate implementation of the policy.
According to the Service, the initiative reflects the growing diplomatic and bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Rwanda while promoting intra-African mobility, tourism and economic cooperation.
The NIS added that it remains committed to ensuring safe, orderly and lawful migration in line with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
