By Fortune Abang
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that Nigeria is not on the list of countries facing an entry ban into Saudi Arabia, which takes effect on April 13.
Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar issued the clarification in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir.
Tuggar confirmed that Saudi authorities have officially debunked the viral memo circulating, which suggested that Nigeria would be included in the ban.
The minister described the document, which named Nigeria, Egypt, India, Pakistan, and other countries as being banned, as “misleading and inaccurate.”
“The Saudi Tourism Centre confirmed no such directive exists. Current official travel guidelines only apply to the Hajj pilgrimage,” Tuggar explained.
He further clarified, “To clarify, the only restriction concerns tourist visa holders during the Hajj period.”
Holders of tourist visas will be restricted from performing Hajj, entering, or remaining in Makkah between April 29 and June 11 (01 Thul Quda to 14 Thul Hijjah 1446 AH).
“The Hajj visa remains the only valid entry permit for pilgrims during that time,” the minister emphasized.
Tuggar urged the public to disregard the false memo and confirmed that travel plans should be verified through official sources.
“Sharing unverified information causes confusion and may affect travel arrangements,” he warned.
He added, “For accurate updates, travellers should consult official Saudi sources, the Nigerian Foreign Ministry, or recognised diplomatic channels.” (NAN)
