Tinubu, Kagame to deepen bilateral relationship

Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Paul Kagame have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda through renewed diplomatic and economic engagements.

President Tinubu reached the agreement during a meeting with President Kagame at the Urugwiro Village shortly after arriving in Kigali for the Africa CEO Forum.

According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, both leaders emphasised the need to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission (JPMC), which was originally signed by the two countries in 2021.

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The presidents agreed that the commission would serve as an important platform for advancing shared economic and diplomatic objectives, while Nigeria is expected to host the next meeting of the commission.

On consular relations, President Tinubu said Nigeria would seriously consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free entry policy for Nigerians in the spirit of Pan-African cooperation and integration.

The two leaders also discussed the implementation of pending Memoranda of Understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption efforts, and the fight against illicit drugs.

The discussions further focused on operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement between both countries to strengthen intra-African trade and economic collaboration.

As part of efforts to improve export opportunities for Nigerian businesses, Nigeria is also in talks with RwandAir following the establishment of an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airlines last year.

The initiative is expected to facilitate easier movement of goods and expand market access for Nigerian exporters across Africa.