UK Adds Nigeria To Red List Over Omicron Variant Fears

The United Kingdom has added Nigeria to its red list category and would tighten travel restrictions effective from Monday as a means to limit the spread of the COVID-19 variant, Omicron.

“From 0400 on Monday 6 December, Nigeria will be added to the red list for entering England,” the UK government’s travel advisory on Nigeria stated.

In other words, Nigerians who do not have UK citizenship or residence permit can no longer travel to the country until the advisory is changed.

The rule also applies to fully vaccinated people.

“Over the recent days we have learnt of a significant number of growing cases linked to travel with Nigeria,” UK Health Secretary Sajid Javid said.

“There are 27 cases already in England and that’s growing and Nigeria now is second only to South Africa in terms of linked cases to Omicron.”

Nigeria first reported three cases of the Omicron variant on Wednesday.