Saudi Embassy: Deported Nigerians Submitted ‘Incorrect Information’ for Cancelled Visas

The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia has clarified media reports concerning the deportation of 264 Nigerians upon entry into the Kingdom, emphasising that it was not specifically targeting Nigerians.

The Saudi Arabian government had on Monday, cancelled the visas of all 264 passengers airlifted by Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, upon arrival in the country from Kano, insisting on their return to Nigeria.

But, in a statement released on Wednesday, the Saudi Embassy stated, “the passengers who were denied entry and subsequently deported to their initial destinations didn’t fulfill the entry conditions and requirements in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the Kingdom. They submitted incorrect information to obtain a category of visa that doesn’t apply to them, discovered upon their arrival.

“This procedure was not limited to Nigerian citizens but rather extended to citizens of other countries”.

Also, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Tuesday, mentioned it was ‘investigating the matter to see if any consular or aviation rules have been flouted.’

Yusuf Tuggar, Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, affirmed that the ministry would ensure actions impacting the welfare of Nigerian citizens are mitigated in the future, aligning with the Four Ds strategy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Royal Saudi Embassy also issued cautionary measures for applicants wishing to visit the Arabian Peninsula.

“The Royal Embassy would like to stress the importance of following the procedures and laws enacted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for all visitors,’ it read. “Furthermore, all passengers should review all the documents to determine their conformity with the conditions before departing from their countries to the Kingdom.”