By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Ola Awakan, has commended President Bola Tinubu for introducing a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan nationals.
The policy, which reciprocates Rwanda’s existing visa-free arrangement for Nigerians, marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations, promoting tourism exchanges, and advancing regional integration across Africa.
Awakan described the initiative as a visionary step that aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
“This reciprocal arrangement will facilitate the easier movement of people, foster cultural exchanges, and open new opportunities for tourism between our two great nations,” he said.
He noted that the policy will enable Rwandan visitors to explore Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and diverse tourism attractions without the previous visa restrictions, for stays of up to 30 days.
“By easing travel restrictions, we are not only upholding our shared Pan-African values but also creating practical opportunities for mutual growth in the tourism sector,” Awakan stated.
The NTDA boss also called for the extension of similar visa exemption policies to other African countries, arguing that broader visa liberalisation would significantly boost inbound tourism to Nigeria.
According to him, removing key travel barriers would increase tourist arrivals, enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global tourism market, encourage longer visitor stays, and stimulate spending on accommodation, transportation, cuisine, and other tourism-related services.
Awakan added that expanded visa-free access across Africa would contribute to job creation in the hospitality, tourism, and creative sectors while fostering stronger economic and cultural ties among African nations.
He further applauded countries such as Ghana, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and Burundi for removing visa requirements for African travellers, describing their actions as important steps toward promoting seamless movement across the continent and deepening regional integration.
