Nigeria, Rwanda Move To Boost Trade, Tourism, Fight Corruption Together

According to Ireporter Online, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have agreed to activate key mechanisms aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, with a renewed focus on trade, tourism, and anti-corruption collaboration.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following President Tinubu’s arrival in Kigali for the Africa CEO Forum, where he held a high-level meeting with President Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa.

Both leaders reportedly emphasized the need to reinvigorate the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), first signed in 2021, describing it as a critical framework for advancing mutual interests between Nigeria and Rwanda. They also agreed that Nigeria would host the next session of the Commission, further reinforcing diplomatic engagement between both nations.

In discussions on consular and mobility matters, President Tinubu noted that Nigeria would give serious consideration to Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free entry arrangement for Nigerian citizens, in line with broader Pan-African integration goals.

The two presidents also reviewed pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, illicit drug control, and anti-corruption efforts, reaffirming commitments to deepen cooperation in these strategic sectors. The talks further reflected Nigeria’s broader push for regional integration, mutual respect among African states, and shared economic prosperity.

Both leaders also exchanged views on the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with renewed commitments to facilitate smoother trade flows between their countries. Discussions also touched on expanding aviation and cargo connectivity, including engagements with RwandAir to enhance export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across Africa.

The meeting comes as the Africa CEO Forum officially commences in Kigali, drawing leaders and stakeholders from across the continent to deliberate on economic growth and investment opportunities.