By Omonu YG Nelson
In response to recent media reports and social media discussions regarding the deportation of Nigerian citizens upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Abuja has issued a clarifying statement.
The Embassy stated that the passengers denied entry and subsequently deported did not meet the Kingdom’s entry requirements and regulations. They had submitted incorrect information to obtain visas for categories that did not apply to them, which was discovered upon their arrival.
The Embassy emphasized the importance of adhering to the procedures and laws governing entry into Saudi Arabia for all visitors. Additionally, it urged passengers to thoroughly review all documents and ensure they comply with the entry requirements before departing for the Kingdom.
The Embassy clarified that this procedure was not specifically targeted at Nigerian citizens but applied to individuals from various countries who failed to meet the Kingdom’s entry criteria.
The Saudi Embassy’s statement aims to provide a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the deportation of Nigerian citizens and to reiterate the importance of adhering to the Kingdom’s entry regulations.