The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed all international airlines operating flights into Nigeria to ensure that arriving passengers complete a mandatory health declaration before entering the country.

The directive, issued on May 30, 2026, comes as Nigerian authorities intensify surveillance measures following concerns over the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak affecting parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda.

According to the NCAA, the move forms part of Nigeria’s broader public health preparedness strategy aimed at preventing the importation and spread of the disease within the country.

Why the New Health Declaration Requirement Was Introduced

In its advisory, the NCAA noted that the Ebola outbreak in parts of the DRC and Uganda has been designated a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO).

As a result, Nigerian aviation and health authorities have strengthened monitoring procedures at points of entry across the country.

The NCAA stated that it is working closely with:

• The Federal Ministry of Health
• The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
• Port Health Services
• State Ministries of Health
• International public health organizations

to ensure a coordinated response and safeguard public health.

What Travelers Need to Do

Under the new directive, all passengers arriving in Nigeria on international flights are required to complete the NCDC Health Declaration Form before arrival.

The form can be accessed through the official NCDC portal

Travellers are encouraged to complete the declaration online before departure to avoid delays during arrival procedures.

According to the NCAA, airlines are expected to notify passengers of this requirement and ensure compliance before boarding.

What happens if you cannot complete the form before travel?

For travellers who are unable to complete the online declaration before departure, alternative arrangements have been made.

The NCAA stated that paper-based health declaration forms will be provided upon arrival in Nigeria. These forms must be completed and submitted to Port Health Services officials before travellers proceed through the arrival processes.

However, completing the form online in advance remains the recommended option for a smoother entry experience.

What This Means for International Travellers

While the directive introduces an additional step for travellers arriving in Nigeria, authorities have emphasised that the measure is preventive and designed to strengthen the country’s public health defences.

Health declaration systems have become increasingly common around the world as governments seek to improve disease surveillance and respond quickly to potential public health threats.

Travellers planning to visit Nigeria in the coming weeks should factor the health declaration requirement into their travel preparations and ensure they have completed all necessary documentation before departure.

Travel to Nigeria With Confidence

Travel requirements can change quickly, especially during periods of heightened public health monitoring.

At Afari Travels & Tours, we help travellers stay informed about the latest entry requirements, visa updates, travel advisories, and documentation requirements for destinations around the world.

Whether you’re travelling for business, tourism, family visits, or group travel, our team can help ensure you have the correct information before departure, making your journey smoother and more stress-free.

For travel guidance, flight bookings, visa support, and up-to-date travel information, contact Afari Travels & Tours today.