By Favour Nnabugwu

The Government of Ethiopia has suspended ‘visa on arrival’ to foreigners at all points of entry due to security challenges and political situation in that country.

In a statement signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson Mrs. Fransisca K Omayuli  stated  “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”, Omayuli added.

Intending Nigerian travelers to Ethiopia were urged to take due cognizance of this development by obtaining appropriate entry visas at the Ethiopian Embassy or an electronic visa (e-visa) through the country’s Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) portal at www.evisa.gov.et 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.

The statement stated further that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will liaise with the Nigerian Immigration Service and Airlines on that route to ensure that Nigerian travelers are adequately sensitized about this visa policy which became operational on 29th September, 2022.

Explaining further, Omayuli frown at some Nigerians who attempt to abuse Ethiopia’s visa policy, “who enter the country on tourist visas and remain even after the expiration of their visas, engaging in unwholesome activities.