The Federal Government has issued a travel advisory warning Nigerians, particularly those with existing health conditions, to exercise caution when travelling through Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.
The advisory follows reports of 16 deaths involving Nigerians who transited through the Ethiopian city in 2026. The deaths were reportedly linked to health complications associated with the city’s high altitude.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the warning on Friday, November 13, urging Nigerians with underlying medical conditions to seek proper medical advice before embarking on journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa.
According to the ministry, Addis Ababa is located approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level. At this altitude, atmospheric pressure is lower, resulting in reduced oxygen availability.
The ministry explained that although healthy individuals can generally adjust to the reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude environments, people with certain medical conditions may experience serious health complications.
It specifically identified individuals with cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses as being more vulnerable to the potential effects of reduced oxygen levels.
The government therefore advised Nigerians whose medical conditions could be worsened by high-altitude environments to consult qualified healthcare professionals before making travel arrangements through the Ethiopian capital.
It also urged Nigerians currently undergoing medical treatment to obtain appropriate medical guidance before undertaking journeys that involve transit through Addis Ababa.
However, the ministry clarified that the travel advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to Ethiopia or using Addis Ababa as a transit point.
Rather, it explained that the warning was issued to raise awareness about the possible health risks associated with the city’s altitude and ensure that medically vulnerable travellers take necessary precautions.
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The Federal Government stressed the importance of adequate health preparation, particularly for travellers with pre-existing medical conditions, to minimise the risk of complications during their journeys.
The advisory comes amid growing concerns over the reported deaths of Nigerian travellers who passed through Addis Ababa, prompting the government to urge citizens to prioritise their health and seek professional medical advice before travelling.
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