The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the travel advisory on Friday, warning that the deaths were reportedly linked to health complications associated with the Ethiopian capital’s high altitude.
According to the ministry, Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, where lower atmospheric pressure results in reduced oxygen availability.
It explained that while healthy individuals are generally able to adapt to reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude environments, people with existing medical conditions, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, could face increased health risks.
The ministry therefore urged Nigerians with conditions that could be worsened by high altitudes to seek appropriate medical advice before planning journeys involving transit through the Ethiopian capital.
It also advised travellers undergoing medical treatment to obtain medical guidance before embarking on such journeys.
However, the government clarified that the advisory was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to or transiting through Addis Ababa.
Rather, it said the notice was aimed at ensuring that people who may be medically vulnerable to the effects of high altitudes were adequately informed and encouraged to take necessary precautions before travelling.
