The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a clarification stating that Nigeria is not included in the list of countries facing an entry ban into Saudi Arabia from April 13. This clarification came after a viral memo suggested Nigeria, alongside countries like Egypt, India, and Pakistan, would face travel restrictions. The Ministry quickly debunked the misinformation, labeling the document as misleading and inaccurate.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed that Saudi authorities had officially denied the existence of any such entry ban for Nigeria. “The Saudi Tourism Centre confirmed no such directive exists,” Tuggar said in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir. He further explained that the only current restriction applies to holders of tourist visas during the Hajj period.
Tuggar emphasized that tourist visa holders will not be allowed to enter or remain in Makkah between April 29 and June 11, which corresponds with the Islamic months of Thul Quda and Thul Hijjah (1446 AH). “The Hajj visa remains the only valid entry permit for pilgrims during that time,” the minister added.
The Foreign Affairs Minister advised Nigerians to disregard the viral memo and instead refer to official sources for accurate travel information. “Sharing unverified information causes confusion and may affect travel arrangements,” he cautioned. He urged travelers to consult official Saudi sources, the Nigerian Foreign Ministry, or recognized diplomatic channels for the latest updates.
The clarification comes at a time when many Nigerians are preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage, highlighting the importance of relying on verified travel guidelines.
