By Gabriel Ameh
The Republic of Kenya has announced a visa-free entry policy for Nigerian nationals, allowing stays of up to 60 days, effective July 2025, in a move aimed at deepening people-to-people relations and strengthening economic, cultural and diplomatic ties between both countries.
The announcement was made in Abuja during activities marking the 62nd Independence Anniversary of Kenya, where officials from both nations reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation. The visa waiver is expected to boost tourism, trade, investment, cultural exchange and the free flow of ideas between Kenya and Nigeria.
Kenyan officials urged Nigerians to take advantage of the new policy to explore the country’s rich tourism and cultural heritage. Kenya was described as the “cradle of humankind,” celebrated for its vast savannahs, scenic coastlines, diverse cultures and renowned hospitality, underscoring the country’s openness and goodwill toward Nigerians.
At the event, appreciation was extended to members of the Kenyan community resident in Nigeria for promoting national pride and strengthening cultural bonds. Gratitude was also expressed to the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders, development partners, academics and friends of Kenya, whose presence highlighted the strong goodwill underpinning Kenya–Nigeria relations. Organisers further commended service providers, including the management of the Abuja Continental Hotel, and staff of the Kenya High Commission for their professionalism and support.
Earlier, Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, conveyed warm greetings from the Nigerian government, explaining that the minister, who was the chief host, was unavoidably absent due to official commitments.
Delivering Nigeria’s goodwill message, the permanent secretary described Kenya’s Independence Day as a symbol of the country’s commitment to freedom, democracy, resilience and self-determination, while reaffirming Nigeria’s solidarity and dedication to strengthening bilateral ties.
He highlighted the longstanding diplomatic relationship between both countries, dating back to 1964, marked by high-level exchanges, including visits by former President Goodluck Jonathan to Kenya between 2012 and 2014, and the reciprocal visit by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta to Nigeria in 2015 during the inauguration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He also recalled President Buhari’s visit to Kenya in 2022 for the UNEP@50 celebrations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s participation in the 43rd African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Nairobi in July 2023, and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s representation of Nigeria at the IDA21 Heads of State Summit in Nairobi in April 2024.
The permanent secretary noted that both countries maintain strong cooperation in tourism, trade and investment, oil and gas, agriculture, livestock and fisheries, supported by agreements on visa exemptions for diplomatic passport holders, double taxation, and city twinning. He also disclosed that Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Isaac K. Parashina, recently engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the need to revive the Kenya–Nigeria Joint Commission for Cooperation, which Nigeria is working to reactivate to address outstanding issues and explore new areas of collaboration.
As Nigeria joined Kenya in celebrating its independence, the federal government reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Kenya to promote regional integration, peace, security and shared prosperity across Africa. On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the government and people of Nigeria, the permanent secretary congratulated Kenya on its 62nd Independence Anniversary and wished the country continued progress and prosperity.
The celebration featured Kenyan cuisine, music, cultural performances and a Kenya–Nigeria fashion fusion showcase, highlighting the shared cultural vibrancy of both nations.
