The Federal Government has issued a travel advisory warning Nigerians, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, against potential health risks associated with transiting through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following 16 deaths involving Nigerians recorded by the country’s diplomatic mission in the city.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a travel advisory dated Friday, November 13, 2026, urged travellers with underlying health conditions to exercise caution and seek appropriate medical advice before embarking on journeys involving transit through the Ethiopian capital.
Nigerian Mission Records 16 Deaths Among Citizens Transiting Through Addis Ababa
According to the ministry, the 16 deaths recorded this year were reportedly linked to health complications associated with the city’s high-altitude terrain.
The advisory explained that Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, where lower atmospheric pressure results in reduced oxygen availability.
It noted that although healthy individuals can generally adapt to reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude environments, people with certain pre-existing medical conditions may face increased health risks.
The ministry particularly identified cardiovascular and respiratory conditions as ailments that could be aggravated by the physiological effects of high altitudes.
Foreign Affairs Ministry Urges Vulnerable Travellers to Seek Medical Advice
The ministry advised Nigerians with existing medical conditions that could be worsened by high-altitude environments to exercise caution when planning journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa.
It also urged travellers with underlying health conditions to obtain appropriate medical guidance before undertaking such journeys to assess potential risks and take necessary precautions.
However, the government clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to or transiting through Addis Ababa, but to ensure that medically vulnerable travellers are adequately informed about potential health complications.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of Nigerians travelling abroad, urging citizens to make informed travel decisions and take appropriate precautions.
The advisory was signed by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
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