Nigeria Begins 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Rwandan Nationals
The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of a 30-day visa exemption policy for Rwandan nationals entering Nigeria, following a directive announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda.
In a press release issued on Friday, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) said all arrangements had been concluded to ensure the immediate enforcement of the policy across the country’s international entry points.
According to the statement, the visa waiver is part of a bilateral arrangement between Nigeria and Rwanda aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations and promoting regional integration.
The policy also reciprocates a similar gesture already extended to Nigerian citizens by the Rwandan government.
Under the arrangement, Rwandan nationals will be allowed to enter Nigeria without a visa for a period not exceeding 30 days for lawful purposes, including tourism, business, and official engagements.
The NIS, however, clarified that individuals intending to stay beyond the approved 30-day period would be required to obtain the appropriate visa through a Nigerian Embassy, High Commission, or the Nigeria e-Visa platform.
The Service further disclosed that airports, land borders, and seaports across the country had been directed to begin immediate implementation of the policy in line with the presidential directive.
The immigration agency noted that the initiative reflects the growing diplomatic and bilateral ties between both countries while encouraging intra-African mobility, tourism, and economic cooperation in line with continental aspirations.
“The Service remains committed to facilitating safe, orderly, and lawful migration in accordance with international best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement added.
The statement was signed by the Service Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service Headquarters, Abuja, DCI Akinlabi Akinola, and dated May 15, 2026.





