UAE restores suspension on Nigeria flights barely 48 hours after it lifted ban

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday again announced suspension of all flights to and from Nigeria, barely 48 hours after announcing that flights will resume on Wednesday, June 23.

According to a statement on the Emirates airline’s website, the UAE government said the suspension took effect on Monday till further notice.

“In line with government directives, passenger flights to and from Nigeria (Lagos and Abuja) are suspended with effect from 21 June 2021 until further notice,” the statement read.

The ban on Nigerian flights also includes passengers who have been to Nigeria in the previous two weeks.

“Customers travelling to and from Lagos and Abuja will not be accepted for travel. Customers who have been to or connected through Nigeria in the last 14 days are not permitted to board from any other point to the UAE,” the directive continued.

On Saturday Emirates airline announced resumption of flights, which were suspended in March over diplomatic row on COVID-19 protocols.

The Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management had lifted the ban on Nigeria and also removed the rapid antigen test and said passengers from Nigeria would only be required to possess negative PCR test.

“We look forward to facilitating travel from these countries and supporting various travelers’ categories.

“We will resume carrying passengers from South Africa, Nigeria and India in accordance with these protocols from 23rd June,” Emirates had announced.

However, Emirates gave no reason for the new suspension imposed but only apologised to customers and advised on next steps to be taken.

“We regret the inconvenience caused, and affected customers should contact their booking agent or Emirates call centre for rebooking. Emirates remains committed to Nigeria, and we look forward to resuming passenger services when conditions allow.”