Nigeria suspends Covid-19 protocol and tests for international passengers, officials announced at the weekend.
Consequently, Covid-19 quarantine and travel requirements have become optional, according to Nigeria Civil Aviation Authorities (NCAA).
Engr Nuhu Musa, Chief Executive of NCAA confirmed the suspension in a letter sent to airline operators.
Passengers no longer require to undergo Covid testing when travelling to or from Nigeria, he wrote.
Specifically, NCAA asked Airlines to discontinue asking for Covid test certificates for all passengers.
“PCR tests required for all passengers who are partially/not fully vaccinated have been suspended.”
In place of Covid tests, passengers coming into Nigeria will fill a form to declare their health status.
NCAA said it prefers that passengers use the Nigerian International Travel Portal (NITP) to fill the health questionnaire form prior to departure.
Those who fail to fill form will be made to do so “on board the aircraft prior to landing or at the airport terminal building upon arrival.”
NCAA however advised certain categories of passengers to continue to observe existing Covid protocol. This includes using face masks, washing hands with water and soap, using sanitizers, and avoiding large gatherings.
The agency specifically mentioned “persons that are 60 years and above, immunocompromised (e.g. due to organ transplant, cancer, etc), and those with co-morbidities (e.g. heart disease, Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, etc).”
NCAA also told airlines to discontinue disinfecting bags at the entrance of terminal buildings. They are yo resume serving meals on board as well.
“Maintaining social distancing at airport terminal buildings is no longer mandatory.
“Facilities and conveyances are advised to maintain good environmental hygiene, good ventilation, and encourage good hand and respiratory hygiene,” NCAA said.
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