Nigeria implements 30-day visa-free entry for Rwandan nationals

The reciprocal arrangement allows visa-free entry for tourism, business, and official engagements

Nigeria has implemented a 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals, allowing visa-free entry at all international airports, land borders, and seaports with immediate effect.

According to Voice of Nigeria, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) confirmed it has completed arrangements to implement President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directive granting the visa-free entry.

The move reciprocates a similar arrangement by the Rwandan government, which granted Nigerian citizens a 30-day visa exemption. President Tinubu announced the directive at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda.

What Rwandan travelers need to know

NIS Public Relations Officer Akinsola Akinlabi said in a statement: "Under this bilateral arrangement, Rwandan nationals may enter Nigeria without a visa for a period not exceeding thirty (30) days for lawful purposes, including tourism, business, and official engagements. However, 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."

All international entry points, including airports, land borders, and seaports, have been directed to commence immediate implementation of the policy.

Strengthening bilateral ties

The NIS said the initiative reflects the strong diplomatic and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, while promoting intra-African mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation in line with continental aspirations.

The Service added that it remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly, and lawful migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.