Nigeria has cautioned travellers with existing health conditions against travelling through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after 16 of its citizens died while transiting through the city this year.
The warning was issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, November 13, following reports of deaths linked to health complications associated with the high altitude of the Ethiopian capital.
In a statement, the ministry advised people with underlying medical conditions to seek medical advice before making journeys that involve passing through Addis Ababa.
The Nigerian Embassy in Ethiopia recorded the 16 deaths among citizens who were travelling through the city.
This is because the city is situated at an elevation of about 2,355 metres above sea level, and hence, there is less atmospheric pressure at this height.
In accordance with the advisory issued, individuals suffering from cardiovascular ailments as well as respiratory diseases might suffer health complications due to the scarcity of oxygen.
This is also true in the case of the Kenyan travelers who travel via Addis Ababa on their way to different locations. The city is an aviation center where Ethiopian Airlines fly to connect the different African cities to international destinations.
However, according to the Nigerian government, this advisory was not intended to stop Nigerians from traveling to Ethiopia or even the city.
The government acknowledged that healthy travelers should be able to adapt to the reduced availability of oxygen, although those with some illnesses might find it a bit difficult.
According to Oluwafemi Adeniyi, a spokesperson from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, travelers who will be affected should be prepared before traveling.
