The Federal Government has raised concerns over the deaths of 16 Nigerians who reportedly experienced health complications while transiting through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this year.

The government has consequently advised Nigerians, particularly those with existing medical conditions, to take necessary precautions when planning journeys through the Ethiopian capital.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a travel advisory issued on Friday, explaining that Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Addis Ababa had recorded the deaths involving Nigerians passing through the city.

According to the ministry, Addis Ababa is located approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, where reduced atmospheric pressure leads to lower oxygen availability.

It explained that the environmental condition could increase health risks for travellers with certain underlying medical conditions, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

The ministry noted that although healthy individuals can generally adjust to reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude locations, people with pre-existing health challenges may experience serious complications.

Consequently, the government urged Nigerians whose medical conditions could be worsened by high-altitude environments to exercise caution when arranging trips involving transit through Addis Ababa.

It also advised travellers with underlying health conditions to consult medical professionals and obtain appropriate guidance before embarking on such journeys.

However, the Federal Government clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to Ethiopia or using Addis Ababa as a transit destination.

Rather, it explained that the warning was aimed at ensuring that travellers who could be vulnerable to the health effects of high altitudes were properly informed and encouraged to take necessary preventive measures.

The ministry further urged Nigerians to make informed travel decisions, especially when existing medical conditions could expose them to additional health risks during their journeys.

It reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the health, safety and welfare of Nigerians travelling abroad, adding that it would continue providing relevant information and guidance to safeguard citizens.