TINUBU, KAGAME AGREE TO DEEPEN BILATERAL RELATIONS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Paul Kagame agreed to activate mechanisms that will deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda.
Upon arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum, President Bola Tinubu met with Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa.
Both leaders highlighted the need to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), which the two countries signed in 2021, and to use it as a platform to advance their shared objectives. They also agreed that Nigeria will host the next Commission meeting.
In reviewing consular matters, President Tinubu announced that Nigeria will seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free status for Nigerians in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
The two presidents agreed to activate pending Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in tourism, Illicit Drugs, and anti-corruption. They demonstrated 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.
Last year, Nigeria established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airways. Nigeria is now in discussions with RwandAir to facilitate greater export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent.
The Africa CEO meeting begins tomorrow.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
May 13, 2026
