Relief For Pilgrims: FG Confirms Nigeria Exempt From Saudi Arabia’s Ban

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that Nigeria is not among the countries affected by Saudi Arabia’s entry ban set to begin on April 13, 2025....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

This clarification was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, through his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, on Monday. Tuggar addressed a widely circulated memo that falsely listed Nigeria—along with countries like Egypt, India, and Pakistan—as subject to the ban.

Describing the memo as false and misleading, the minister said the Saudi Tourism Authority had confirmed that no such ban exists.

“There is no directive of that nature,” Tuggar said. “Current travel restrictions apply solely to Hajj-related activities.”

He further explained that the only valid restriction concerns tourist visa holders, who will not be allowed to perform Hajj or enter/stay in Makkah between April 29 and June 11, 2025 (01 Thul Quda to 14 Thul Hijjah 1446 AH). During this time, only travelers with a Hajj visa will be permitted entry for pilgrimage.

Tuggar urged the public to disregard the fake memo and always verify travel information through authorized channels.

“Circulating unverified details leads to unnecessary confusion and can disrupt travel plans,” he emphasized.

He advised travelers to rely on official Saudi communications, the Nigerian Foreign Ministry, or recognized diplomatic sources for accurate updates.