The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a new directive to all airlines operating regional and international flights into Nigeria to allow passengers without International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), known as Yellow card board henceforth.
This directive according to Sam Adurogboye, the spokesperson for NCAA, supersedes the earlier one issued on compulsory possession of Yellow Card.
However, passengers are advised that they will be vaccinated accordingly at Points of Entry and the process for obtaining the e-yellow card will be initiated.
This policy shift followed a letter received from the Federal Ministry of Health dated 11th March, 2020 reviewing the implementation of the operationalization of Nigeria Points of Entry policy on the prevention and control of cross border transmission of Yellow fever.
“The review of the policy arose from the competing priority of the on-going entry screening of our Points of Entry by the Port Health Services for COVID-19. Hence, entry screening of passengers due to the COVID-19 outbreak will be prioritized by the Port Health Services ″until the outbreak has been effectively contained’’.
The NCAA states that all airlines operating these flights from 11th March, 2020 are required to implement the reviewed policy of the Federal Ministry of Health.
It explains that passengers coming to Nigeria without documented proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever (valid yellow card) are allowed to board but be advised that they will be vaccinated accordingly at Points of Entry and the process for obtaining the e-yellow card will be initiated.
The letter also urged passengers departing Nigeria, that a valid Yellow card will be required for boarding. It appeals to the affected Airlines to communicate this policy to their passengers accordingly.
“This policy review is with effect from 11th March, 2020,” the letter stated.
The NCAA therefore, emphasizes that strict and immediate compliance is required.
IFEOMA OKEKE
