FG Warns Nigerians Over Addis Ababa Transit Risks After 16 Deaths

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

An invisible health threat lurking in the high-altitude environment of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has come under scrutiny following the deaths of 16 Nigerians reportedly linked to altitude-related complications.

The Federal Government has consequently issued a travel advisory urging Nigerians, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, to exercise caution when planning journeys involving transit through the Ethiopian capital.

The advisory, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, explained that Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres above sea level, where lower atmospheric pressure reduces oxygen availability.

According to it, Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in the city recorded 16 deaths involving Nigerians transiting through Addis Ababa this year, reportedly linked to health complications associated with high altitudes.

The ministry warned that although healthy individuals generally adapt to reduced oxygen levels, people with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions could face increased health risks.

It advised Nigerians with medical conditions that could be worsened by high altitudes to seek appropriate medical guidance before embarking on journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa.

The advisory stated: “Travellers with underlying medical conditions are also urged to obtain appropriate medical guidance before undertaking such journeys.”

The Federal Government, however, clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to or transiting through the Ethiopian capital.

Rather, it explained that the warning was aimed at ensuring medically vulnerable travellers understood the physiological effects of high altitudes and took necessary precautions.

The ministry added: “The Federal Government places high premium on the health, safety and wellbeing of Nigerians and therefore urges all travellers to make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions.”

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely information and guidance to Nigerians travelling abroad as part of efforts to safeguard their welfare and promote their safety.