Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said the suspension of issuance of visa on arrival by the Federal Government of Ethiopia was not targeted at only Nigerians.
Francisca Omayuli, the Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued in Abuja, said the development which applied at all points of entry into the country, was as a result of security concerns and the current political situation in the country. She said it applied to Nigerians and nationals of other countries who are non-resident in the country.
“The suspension applies to nationals of all countries bearing standard passports, who seek entry into Ethiopia and not specifically targeted at Nigerians, as reported in some quarters.
“The Ethiopian authorities have explained that the measure is aimed at better border control of movement of persons into Ethiopia in view of the ongoing armed conflict in the Northern part of the country. The measure is said to be temporary, pending improvement in the security situation in the country and not a replacement of Ethiopia’s open visa policy.
“Therefore, Nigerians bearing standard passports intending to travel to Ethiopia are by this notification advised to obtain appropriate entry visas at the Ethiopian embassy or an electronic visa (e-visa) through the country’s immigration and citizenship service (ICS) portal.
“Also, those transiting through Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to other destinations or intend to briefly stop over would require valid entry visa to enable them access hotel facilities in the city or else would be obligated to remain in the airport pending their connecting flight.”
Source: Sun
