In a bid to boost trade and bilateral relations with Nigeria, the High Commissioner of Rwanda to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Nigeria in key sectors, such as trade, aviation, and information and communication technology (ICT).
Bazivamo made the pledge in Abuja recently, during the celebration of the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day, known as Kwibohora, themed “The Journey Continues.”
Kwibohora31 is a significant occasion that commemorates the end of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Bazivamo said the collaboration between Rwanda and Nigeria was a catalyst for economic growth and development, adding that it would boost trade and bilateral relations.
Bazivamo said, “Rwanda is fully committed to collaborating closely with Nigeria to cultivate a thriving economic environment that benefits both our Nations.
“Trade serves as the heartbeat of any economy. By deepening trade connections, we can generate opportunities and enhance the well-being of our citizens.”
He also expressed pride in Rwanda’s partnership with Nigeria across various sectors, including trade, aviation, and digital innovation, with the aim of collectively shaping a prosperous Africa.
Bazivamo said that Rwanda was working towards establishing a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Nigeria to encourage increased investment ventures.
Speaking further, the High Commissioner, emphasised the significance of the aviation industry in facilitating seamless connectivity between Rwanda and Nigeria and enhancing business activities and tourism.
He pointed out the potential of ICT in driving innovation and economic transformation, highlighting the benefits of investing in ICT partnerships for both nations.
The High Commissioner also underscored Rwanda’s commitment to regional stability, referencing a recent peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He noted that Rwanda’s progress in various areas, such as technology, gender equality, and economic growth, was due to deliberate choices and a unified national purpose.
Bazivamo said that Rwanda’s Vision 2050 was a strategic framework focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation, adding that the vision aimed to elevate the country to an upper-middle-income status by 2045 and a high-income, knowledge-based economy by 2050.
He asserted that this vision was not merely aspirational, but rooted in a clear plan designed to benefit every Rwandan citizen.
A major development came on June 27, 2025, when both countries signed an Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion.
The pact was designed to ease cross-border investment by eliminating tax-related barriers, encouraging private-sector participation, and supporting intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
In terms of investment flow, Nigeria has emerged as a significant player in Rwanda’s economy. In 2024, it had become the fourth-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the East African country.