UK Eases Travel Advisory on Kaduna, Cites Security Gains and Reform Progress

The United Kingdom has lifted its travel restrictions on Kaduna State, moving it from the “Red” to the “Amber” category in its foreign travel advisory. The decision signals renewed international confidence in the state’s security and governance reforms.

The announcement came on Wednesday during the signing of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (KaMAF) between the Kaduna State Government and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Kaduna was placed on the “Red” list in 2022 due to rising insecurity, including banditry and insurgent attacks that disrupted education and displaced thousands. With its new “Amber” status, British nationals may now visit Kaduna with fewer restrictions, though caution is still advised in certain rural areas.

Governor Uba Sani hailed the move as a “major vote of confidence in Kaduna’s resilience and reform agenda,” highlighting progress in healthcare, education, agriculture, and institutional reforms. He noted that over 10 per cent of the 2025 budget is allocated to boosting crop and livestock productivity, while ongoing initiatives aim to entrench transparency and citizen participation in governance.

UK Development Director for Nigeria, Cynthia Rowe, praised Kaduna’s security and reform efforts, stating that the reclassification was a recognition of “significant progress made over the past two years.” She added that the change would send a strong signal to investors and development partners that Kaduna is “open for business.”

The lifting of restrictions is expected to boost investor confidence and attract more international development projects, further positioning Kaduna as a key gateway to Northern Nigeria.