UK Is Committed to Opening Up International Travel

The United Kingdom (UK) is committed to opening up international travel and is using its COVID- 19 vaccine certification process to enable all those wishing to enter the UK to do so safely.

Following frustration experienced by Nigerians visiting the United Kingdom over strict COVID-19 travelling protocols, the British High Commission in Nigeria on Saturday said beginning from October 4, the rules will be relaxed.

A statement credited to the high commissioner in Nigeria, Catriona Laing, also noted that reports suggesting that the COVID-19 vaccines administered in Nigeria are not approved by the UK are untrue.

Ms Laing said the UK recognises the Oxford-AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson’s and Johnson’s vaccines used in Nigeria, irrespective of where they are manufactured.

The statement reads in part: “The UK is committed to global access to vaccines, and is among the largest funders to COVAX. The UK has donated 1.2 million vaccines specifically to Nigeria through COVAX and will continue to provide support.

“The UK strongly supports the work of the Nigerian health authorities and Nigeria’s vaccination campaign, and strongly encourages all eligible residents in Nigeria to get vaccinated. Only once we are all vaccinated can we end the spread of COVID-19.”

On travel restrictions

Ms Laing said the UK authorities will soon simplify existing travel rules for Nigerians and other international visitors to the country.

“From October 4, 2021, the current system will be simplified. There will be a single red list of countries and territories where stricter rules apply, and there will also be a “rest of the world” list, with simplified travel measures.”

The official said the “rest of the world” list will include countries currently on the UK’s amber list, such as Nigeria.

She said the UK government is committed to opening up international travel while using its COVID-19 vaccination certification process to enable those wishing to enter the UK to do so safely.

“We know this matters hugely to many people in the UK and Nigeria – the extensive people-people ties between our two countries are at the heart of our bilateral relationship.”

She also explained that travel rules are kept under regular review and people planning to travel to the UK should regularly check the latest information and requirements as set out on the www.gov.uk website.

September 27, 2021