The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has defended its decision to refuse entry to 17 Nigerian nationals, citing precautionary public health measures linked to growing global concerns over the spread of Ebola.
The affected Nigerians were reportedly denied access into the Caribbean federation after arriving aboard regional airline services.
In a statement issued by government officials, authorities said the action was taken based on advice from health experts as part of efforts to safeguard residents from potential health risks.
According to the government, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention had classified Nigeria as being at elevated risk of Ebola importation due to developments surrounding outbreaks in some African countries and increasing international travel through major transit routes.
The authorities, however, clarified that no confirmed Ebola case connected to the current outbreak had been recorded in Nigeria.
Despite this, officials noted that the advisory warranted increased vigilance and stricter border health measures.
The government stressed that the decision was purely precautionary and not intended to target Nigerians unfairly, adding that St. Kitts and Nevis maintained cordial relations with Nigeria and its citizens.
Officials also expressed regret over any inconvenience caused to the affected travellers, while insisting that the safety and wellbeing of residents remained a top priority.
“The health and safety of our citizens and residents continue to guide all decisions being taken,” the statement noted.
The government further stated that all actions were in line with established public health guidelines and international disease prevention protocols.
Authorities also assured that the affected individuals would be treated respectfully and humanely despite the restrictions imposed on them.
Residents were urged to comply with ongoing health regulations and border control procedures aimed at preventing the possible spread of infectious diseases into the country.
The government expressed optimism that the wider Ebola concerns affecting parts of the international community would soon be brought under control to allow safer global travel and interaction.
The development comes amid heightened health surveillance measures adopted by several countries following fears that Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa could spread beyond affected regions.
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