FG Raises Health Alert Over Addis Ababa, Says 16 Nigerians Have Died

The Federal Government has issued a travel advisory urging Nigerians to exercise caution when travelling through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, over health risks associated with the city’s high altitude.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that at least 16 Nigerians have died from complications linked to the high-altitude terrain, although it did not provide further details.

The ministry explained that Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, where lower atmospheric pressure reduces oxygen availability and could pose serious health risks, particularly to travellers with pre-existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

Addis Ababa is a major aviation hub and the operational base of Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier. It also serves as an important transit point for Nigerians travelling to various international destinations.

According to the ministry, while healthy individuals are likely to adapt to reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes, people with underlying medical conditions may face increased health risks.

The ministry stated:
“People with certain pre-existing medical ailments, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, may experience increased health risks in such conditions.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria advises particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions to exercise caution and seek appropriate medical advice when planning journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in view of the potential health risks associated with the city’s high-altitude terrain.”

The ministry clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to Ethiopia or using Addis Ababa as a transit point. Rather, it is aimed at ensuring that medically vulnerable travellers are adequately informed and take necessary precautions.

It added that the Federal Government places a high premium on the health, safety and wellbeing of Nigerians and urged all travellers to make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions, particularly where existing medical conditions could increase their vulnerability during travel.