The Federal Government has debunked circulating reports alleging that Saudi Arabia has imposed a visa ban on Nigerians and 12 other nationalities.
In a statement issued by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, the ministry confirmed that the viral memo listing Nigeria among banned countries is false.
According to Tuggar, Saudi authorities have officially denied issuing any such directive.
He described the document — which also listed Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, India, Pakistan, and several others — as inaccurate and misleading.
The ministry clarified that:
There is no visa or entry ban on Nigeria by Saudi Arabia.
The only restriction in place pertains to the Hajj season.
Between April 29 and June 11, 2025 (01 Thul Quda to 14 Thul Hijjah 1446 AH), individuals on tourist visas are not allowed to enter Makkah or perform the pilgrimage.
Only those with valid Hajj visas can participate during this period.
The ministry urged Nigerians to disregard the fake memo and seek travel information only from official sources to avoid confusion.
