Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and that of Rwanda Paul Kagame have agreed to deepen bilateral relations between both countries through stronger economic, diplomatic and trade cooperation.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the two leaders met at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa in Kigali shortly after Tinubu arrived in Rwanda for the Africa CEO Forum.
Onanuga said the presidents agreed to revive the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission signed by both countries in 2021 to advance shared bilateral goals, with Nigeria set to host the next meeting of the commission.
Tinubu also said Nigeria would consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free policy for Nigerians as part of broader efforts to promote African integration and cooperation.
The statement said both leaders discussed activating pending memoranda of understanding covering tourism, anti-corruption cooperation and efforts to combat illicit drugs.
According to the statement they also exchanged ideas on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement between both countries to boost trade and regional economic collaboration.
Onanuga said Nigeria, which last year established an air cargo corridor with Uganda Airways, is now discussing partnership opportunities with RwandAir to expand export opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
The Africa CEO Forum, which begins on Thursday, is expected to attract more than 2,000 business executives, investors and government officials from across Africa and beyond.