RwandAir has reaffirmed Nigeria’s role as a strategic market in West Africa, highlighting strong passenger demand, seamless travel through Kigali, and Rwanda’s open visa policy for all African nationals as key growth drivers.
Speaking at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos, RwandAir’s Regional Manager for West and Central Africa, Ginette Kadigiri, said the airline has steadily expanded operations since entering Nigeria in 2011.
“Nigeria is a very important market for us. Nigerians travel a lot and love exploring, so it was an obvious choice,” she noted.
RwandAir currently operates daily flights from Lagos to Kigali, connecting passengers to over 20 direct destinations and more than 120 global cities through codeshare partners such as Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. Kadigiri added that Nigerian travellers have welcomed the deployment of RwandAir’s Airbus fleet on the Lagos route, praising its comfort and service quality.
Rwanda’s visa-free entry for all Africans has further boosted travel demand. “It’s as simple as booking a ticket and hotel; on arrival, entry is smooth and guaranteed,” Kadigiri said. This policy has significantly increased tourist arrivals, making Rwanda one of Africa’s most attractive destinations.
Beyond leisure, Rwanda is positioning itself as a hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). With support from the Rwanda Convention Bureau, Kigali has become a top choice for global conferences, aided by RwandAir’s expanding network.
Kadigiri stressed that Nigeria remains central to RwandAir’s growth strategy. “With daily operations from Lagos, expanding codeshares, and our open visa policy, we are consolidating our role as a bridge between West Africa and Kigali’s hub,” she said.
Industry experts note that this approach strengthens intra-African connectivity, reduces reliance on European hubs, and positions Kigali as a key aviation gateway.
