Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have agreed to deepen diplomatic and economic relations between their countries, with talks centred on trade, travel, and regional cooperation.
The understanding was reached during a meeting at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali ahead of the Africa CEO Forum, according to a statement released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
One of the major outcomes of the discussions was the decision to reactivate the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission, an agreement established in 2021 to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Nigeria is expected to host the commission’s next session.
Immigration and consular matters also formed part of the talks, with Tinubu stating that Nigeria may consider adopting a reciprocal arrangement to match Rwanda’s current 30-day visa-free entry policy for Nigerian citizens.
The statement further noted that both countries reviewed pending agreements related to tourism, anti-corruption collaboration, and the fight against illegal drug trafficking.
Regional trade and economic integration were also key topics during the meeting, particularly the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, which both presidents reaffirmed their commitment to supporting.
Nigeria has additionally opened discussions with RwandAir aimed at creating broader export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across African markets. The development follows Nigeria’s establishment of an air cargo partnership with Uganda Airlines last year.
The meeting comes amid renewed efforts by African governments to strengthen intra-continental trade and enhance economic cooperation under broader regional integration programmes.