Nigerian Government Issues Warning Against Addis Ababa Airport Transit Following Six Deaths
The Nigerian government has urged its nationals to reconsider travel plans that involve layovers at Addis Ababa's Bole International Airport. The caution, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, specifically targets individuals with underlying health issues, citing the airport's high altitude as a potential risk factor.
Official statements from Abuja reveal that six Nigerian citizens have tragically died this year while transiting through the Ethiopian capital. The ministry has not provided detailed medical reports for each case, but the implication is a link between their pre-existing health conditions and the airport's elevation, which stands at approximately 2,334 metres (7,657 feet) above sea level.
This advisory marks a significant concern for Nigerian travellers, as Addis Ababa often serves as a primary hub for flights connecting Africa with other continents. Passengers experiencing conditions such as hypoxia or exacerbation of cardiovascular or respiratory problems due to reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes are particularly vulnerable.
The Nigerian High Commission in Addis Ababa has reportedly been instructed to engage with Ethiopian authorities and airline operators to address these serious health implications for transit passengers. The aim is to seek measures that could mitigate risks or provide clearer guidance for those deemed vulnerable to high-altitude effects.
