There has been some uncertainty in the travel business as a result of the claimed ban on visas on arrival for Nigerians visiting Ethiopia.
Those with a vested interest in the matter say that Tuesday’s change will likely lead to travel disruptions within Ethiopia.
Owners of Ethiopian Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, have informed their airline partners of the change.
Ethiopian Airlines is one of the most well-liked international carriers serving airports in Nigeria.
Previously, Nigerians travelling to or through Ethiopia could easily obtain a visa on arrival (VOA). However, under the new policy, all potential tourists must first get an ET visa from the embassy in Abuja.
Ethiopian Airlines said to its travel agency partners – “Please be informed that effective immediate No More Visa on Arrival for Nigerian citizens.
“Passengers are to obtain their visa at the Ethiopian Embassy in Abuja before traveling. Please note that: Passengers transiting overnight in Addis Ababa are not affected by the ban. E.g. passengers having layover in Addis to travel the next morning to Zanzibar, Seychelles, Lusaka, Lilongwe, Harare, Cape Town, etc are not affected by the ban and do not need transit visa for their trips.”
Nigeria started a Visa-on-arrival policy for citizens of the African Union member states just like Sierra Leonne. In Sierra Leone, travellers will be required to pay a $25 dollar fee.