Presidents Bola Tinubu and Paul Kagame have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda through renewed diplomatic and economic cooperation.
According to a statement issued by Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the two leaders met at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali after President Tinubu arrived in Rwanda for the Africa CEO Forum.
During the meeting, both presidents stressed the need to reactivate the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), signed by the two countries in 2021, as a key platform for advancing mutual interests and cooperation.
The leaders also agreed that Nigeria would host the next session of the commission.
On consular relations, President Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria would give serious consideration to reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free entry policy for Nigerian citizens in line with the ideals of Pan-Africanism and regional integration.
The discussions also focused on activating pending Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) covering tourism, anti-corruption efforts, and the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
According to the statement, the talks reflected President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting stronger inter-African collaboration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity across the continent.
Both leaders further exchanged views on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), reaffirming their support for deeper economic integration between African nations.
Nigeria, which established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines last year, is also currently in talks with RwandAir to boost export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across Africa.
