President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Paul Kagame have resolved to activate mechanisms to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu met with Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa upon his 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.
They further agreed that Nigeria should host the next meeting of the commission.
While reviewing consular matters, President Tinubu stated that Nigeria would seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free policy for Nigerians in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
The two presidents also discussed the activation of pending Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in the 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 also exchanged ideas on operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) between the two countries. Both leaders reaffirmed their support for the agreement.
Nigeria, which last year established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines, is now in discussions with RwandAir to facilitate greater export opportunities for Nigerian businesses across the continent.
The Africa CEO Forum begins on Thursday.