The Federal Government has disclosed that 16 Nigerians have died in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this year, with the deaths reportedly linked to health complications associated with the city's high altitude.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a travel advisory issued on Friday.
The ministry warned Nigerians with certain underlying health conditions to take precautions when travelling through the Ethiopian capital.
"The city is about 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, a condition that causes lower atmospheric pressure and reduces the availability of oxygen," the ministry said.
It explained that although healthy travellers can generally adjust to the reduced oxygen levels, people with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and respiratory diseases, may face increased health risks.
"This year, Nigeria's Diplomatic Mission in Addis Ababa has recorded 16 deaths involving Nigerians transiting through the city, reportedly linked to health complications associated with high altitudes,” the ministry stated.
It advised Nigerians whose medical conditions could be worsened by high altitudes to seek medical advice before embarking on journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa.
However, the ministry clarified that the warning was not intended to discourage Nigerians from travelling to or transiting through the Ethiopian capital.
"The Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the health, safety and welfare of Nigerians travelling abroad and will continue to provide timely information and guidance to protect their wellbeing," the ministry said.
16 Nigerians die in Addis Ababa from high-altitude health complications - FG