President Bola Tinubu and President Paul Kagame have resolved to activate mechanisms to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Rwanda.

Upon arrival in Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum, Mr Tinubu met with Kagame at the Urugwiro Presidential Villa, according to a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.

Both leaders emphasised the importance of reviving the Joint Permanent Ministerial Commission, originally signed by both countries in 2021, as a vital platform for advancing their shared objectives.

Messrs Tinubu and Kagame also agreed that Nigeria should host the next meeting of the Commission.

In reviewing consular matters, Mr Tinubu stated that Nigeria would “seriously” consider reciprocating Rwanda’s 30-day visa-free status for Nigerians “in the spirit of Pan-Africanism”.

The two presidents also discussed the activation of pending memoranda of understanding in areas of tourism, Illicit Drugs, and anti-corruption—underscoring Mr Tinubu’s commitment to inter-African integration, mutual respect, and shared prosperity, said the statement.

Messrs Tinubu and Kagame exchanged ideas towards operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

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.