COVID-19: FG no longer requires PCR testing for air travelers

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has abolished the mandatory COVID-19 test regardless of immunization status in its most recent COVID-19 health guidelines for the aviation industry.

The federal government highlighted that the pre-existing requirements were lifted because the COVID-19 pandemic “has been chronically infrequent in Nigeria and much of the rest of the world” in a memo signed by NCAA director-general Musa Nuhu.

Regardless of vaccination status, pre-departure and post-arrival COVID-19 PCR tests are no longer required for all passengers, according to the memo. The mandatory PCR tests for any passengers who are only partially or not at all immunized have been suspended.

The NCAA advises those 60 years of age and older, immune-compromised people, and people with co-morbidities to avoid large gatherings and wash their hands with water and soap, use hand sanitizers, and consider wearing a face mask when on airplanes or within airport terminal buildings.

The policy further claimed that it would no longer be necessary to maintain social distance at airport terminal buildings or sanitize bags at the entrance.

Airlines were told to start serving food and beverages again on board, and it was suggested that travelers and airport staff apply an alcohol-based sanitizer.

The NCAA announced that health declaration documents and permission to travel/QR codes would no longer be necessary.

However, all travelers visiting Nigeria must complete a brief health questionnaire (not related to COVID-19) on the Nigerian International Travel Portal, ideally prior to departure.

According to the NCAA, travelers who don’t finish the health questionnaire on the NITP before to departure must do it either before landing on the plane or once they are at the airport terminal building.