Nigeria Warns Travellers of Health Risks in Addis Ababa Transit

The Nigerian government has raised concerns over the deaths of 16 Nigerians who suffered fatal health complications while transiting through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this year. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria's Diplomatic Mission in Addis Ababa documented the 16 deaths involving Nigerians travelling through the city. The ministry has issued a travel advisory, urging Nigerians with underlying medical conditions to exercise caution when using the Ethiopian capital as a transit destination.

The advisory attributes the potential health risks to Addis Ababa's high-altitude location, approximately 2,355 metres above sea level. At such elevations, the reduced atmospheric pressure lowers oxygen availability, which can create complications for travellers with certain pre-existing medical conditions. People with cardiovascular and respiratory ailments are particularly vulnerable, although healthy individuals can generally adapt to the reduced oxygen levels.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised Nigerians whose medical conditions could be aggravated by high altitudes to seek medical advice before undertaking journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa. The advisory, signed by the ministry's spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, emphasises that 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 Federal Government has clarified that the advisory is not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to Ethiopia or using Addis Ababa as a transit point. Instead, the objective is to ensure that travellers, especially those considered medically vulnerable, are aware of the possible risks and can take appropriate precautions. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely travel advisories and relevant information to protect Nigerians travelling abroad.

The safety and wellbeing of Nigerians remain central to the government's foreign affairs responsibilities. The ministry urged citizens to prioritise their health when making international travel arrangements. The advisory carries reference number MFA/PR/2026/297 and was issued on November 14, 2026.

The travel advisory is part of the government's efforts to protect Nigerians travelling abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation and provide updates to Nigerian travellers. The government encourages citizens to take necessary precautions and stay informed about travel requirements and potential health risks.

The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the health risks associated with transiting through Addis Ababa and has taken steps to inform and protect its citizens. The travel advisory serves as a reminder for Nigerians to exercise caution when travelling abroad and to prioritise their health and wellbeing.

Key points

• The Nigerian government reports 16 deaths linked to Addis Ababa transit this year.
• The travel advisory warns Nigerians with underlying medical conditions to exercise caution when transiting through Addis Ababa.
• The advisory attributes the health risks to Addis Ababa's high-altitude location, which can exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions.