The Federal Government has issued a travel advisory to Nigerians using Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as a transit destination following the deaths of 16 Nigerians reportedly linked to health complications associated with the city’s high-altitude environment.
The government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, specifically cautioned Nigerians with pre-existing medical conditions against undertaking journeys involving transit through the Ethiopian capital without first obtaining appropriate medical advice.
In a travel advisory dated Friday, November 13, 2026, the ministry disclosed that Nigeria’s Diplomatic Mission in Addis Ababa had recorded 16 deaths involving Nigerians transiting through the city this year.
Signed by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, the advisory disclosed that the deaths were associated with health complications arising from the high-altitude conditions in the Ethiopian capital, where reduced atmospheric pressure can affect oxygen availability.
According to the ministry, Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, an elevation at which the lower atmospheric pressure results in reduced oxygen availability.
The government explained that while healthy individuals are generally able to adapt to reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude environments, people with certain underlying medical conditions could face increased health risks.
It identified cardiovascular and respiratory conditions as particularly concerning, noting that individuals with such ailments may experience complications arising from the physiological effects of high altitudes.
“In view of the foregoing, Nigerians with pre-existing health conditions that can be exacerbated by high altitudes are strongly advised to exercise caution when planning journeys that involve transit through Addis Ababa,” the advisory stated.
The ministry further urged travellers with underlying medical conditions to obtain appropriate medical guidance before embarking on journeys involving the Ethiopian capital.
It also advised Nigerians to make informed travel decisions and take necessary precautions, particularly where existing medical conditions could increase their vulnerability during journeys.
The Federal Government, however, clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to Ethiopia or transiting through Addis Ababa.
“The Federal Government wishes to emphasise that this advisory is not intended to discourage Nigerians from transiting through or travelling to Addis Ababa,” the statement said.
Rather, it explained that the measure was designed to ensure that medically vulnerable travellers were adequately informed about the potential effects of high-altitude environments and encouraged to take necessary precautions before travelling.
The ministry reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of Nigerians travelling abroad.
It added that it would continue to provide timely information and guidance to Nigerians outside the country as part of efforts to safeguard their welfare and promote their safety.
