COVID-19: China Bars Nigerian Citizens From Entry

Chinese authorities have temporarily suspended entry into China by Nigerians and non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria holding valid Chinese visas or residence permits due to the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19.

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria made the announcement in a notice on Thursday.

It said it would no longer issue certified health declaration form for non-Chinese nationals in the country.

The embassy, however, stated that holders of diplomatic passports, courtesy or C visas would not be affected by the restriction.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China has decided to temporarily suspend entry into China by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria holding visas or residence permits still valid at the time of this announcement,” the notice read.

“The Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria will no longer issue Certified Health Declaration Form for the above-mentioned personnel.

“Entry by holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergency needs may apply for visas at Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Entry by non-Chinese nationals in Nigeria with visas issued after 3 November 2020 will not be affected.”

The embassy noted that the suspension is a temporary response “necessitated by the current situation of Covid-19”.

“The above-mentioned measures will be assessed in accordance with the evolving situation and any adjustment will be announced accordingly,” it added.

COVID-19 first broke out in the Chinese City of Wuhan in December 2019. It has since spread to 218 countries.

As of Thursday evening, over 48 million persons have contracted the disease worldwide. The disease has also resulted in the death of 1.2 million persons.