…Says initiative’ll advance regional integration 

The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Ola Awakan, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the bold initiative of the 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan nationals.

‎This development, which reciprocates Rwanda’s existing visa-free policy for Nigerians, marks a significant milestone in advancing tourism exchanges, strengthening bilateral ties and advancing regional integration.

‎According to the DG, the gesture is a visionary step that aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of the President.

He said: “This reciprocal arrangement will facilitate easier movement of people, foster cultural exchanges, and open new doors for tourism between our two great nations,” noting that Rwandan visitors can now explore Nigeria’s rich heritage sites, vibrant festivals, and diverse natural attractions without the previous visa hurdles, for up to 30 days.

‎“By easing travel restrictions, we are not only honouring our shared Pan-African values but also creating practical opportunities for mutual growth in the tourism sector,” Awakan stated.

‎Awakan, who called for the extension of similar visa exemption initiatives to other African countries, opined that expanding this policy to other African countries and possibly having a visa-free policy would boost inbound tourism to Nigeria by removing key barriers that currently limit tourist traffic.

‎The NTDA helmsman advised that broader visa liberalisation would enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global tourism arena, encourage longer stays, increase spending on accommodation and cuisine and stimulate job creation in hospitality and the creative industry.

He also commends the bold steps taken by Ghana, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and Burundi to scrap visa requirements for African travellers, thereby easing movement across the continent and strengthening regional integration.