The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Rwanda have agreed to deepen the existing bilateral relations between both countries.
This commitment was reinforced on Wednesday between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Paul Kagame, upon arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum.
Both leaders emphasised the importance of reviving the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), originally signed by both countries in 2021, as a vital platform for advancing their shared objectives.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the leaders also agreed that Nigeria should host the next meeting of the Commission.
In reviewing consular matters, President Tinubu stated that Nigeria will seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free status for Nigerians in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
The statement said the two presidents also discussed the activation of pending Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in areas of tourism, Illicit Drugs, and anti-corruption—underscoring President Tinubu’s commitment to inter-African integration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.
“Presidents Tinubu and Kagame exchanged ideas towards operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) between the two countries. The two leaders have remained steadfast in their support for this agreement,” the statement said.
It said Nigeria, which last year established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airways, is now in discussions with RwandAir to facilitate greater export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent.
The Africa CEO meeting begins today.
