The United Kingdom has officially eased travel restrictions on Kaduna State, moving it from the “Red” to the “Amber” category in its foreign travel advisory. This shift signals renewed international confidence in the state’s security situation and its ongoing reform efforts.
The announcement coincided with the signing of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework between the Kaduna State Government and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The framework is designed to foster collaboration in governance, education, health, agriculture, and institutional reforms.
Kaduna was placed on the UK’s “Red” list in 2022 due to rising insecurity, including banditry and insurgent attacks that led to school closures and widespread displacement. With the new “Amber” status, British citizens can now travel to Kaduna with fewer restrictions, though caution is still advised in certain rural areas.
Governor Uba Sani described the development as a strong vote of confidence in Kaduna’s resilience and progress. He highlighted the administration’s achievements in stabilizing the state and driving inclusive growth. “Through partnerships like this, we have reduced maternal and child mortality, improved access to primary healthcare, and upgraded hundreds of classrooms,” Sani said. “Over 10 percent of our 2025 budget is committed to boosting crop and livestock productivity, and the UK’s decision reinforces our resolve to deliver inclusive growth.”
The governor also pointed to ongoing reform initiatives such as the Local Government Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability program, Issue-Based Projects, and Community Development Charters. These initiatives are aimed at deepening citizen participation and institutionalizing accountability. “We are committed to building institutions that outlast administrations and ensure citizens have a voice in governance,” he added.
Cynthia Rowe, the UK’s Development Director for Nigeria, praised Kaduna’s progress in both security and governance. She noted that the reclassification to the Amber category reflects tangible improvements achieved over the past two years. “Kaduna had been on the Red list since 2022 due to security concerns. The state’s renewed focus on protecting lives and property, especially in rural areas, is commendable,” Rowe said. “This change also sends a strong signal to investors and development partners that Kaduna is open for business.”
Rowe emphasized that KaMAF is more than an agreement on paper. “It’s about concrete action—supporting Kaduna’s growth, strengthening institutions, and ensuring inclusive development,” she said.
The lifting of travel restrictions is expected to bolster investor confidence and attract more international development projects to Kaduna, a state often seen as the gateway to Northern Nigeria.
