By Atoyebi Nike
The United Kingdom has lifted its travel restrictions on Kaduna State, upgrading it from the “Red” to the “Amber” category in its foreign travel advisory.
The announcement was made 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 (FCDO).
Kaduna had been on the “Red” list since 2022 due to banditry and insurgent attacks that forced school closures and displaced thousands. With the new status, British nationals can now travel to the state with fewer restrictions, though caution is still advised in rural areas.
Governor Uba Sani described the reclassification as a “vote of confidence” in the state’s reforms and resilience. He highlighted gains in healthcare, education, and agriculture, noting that more than 10% of Kaduna’s 2025 budget is devoted to boosting food productivity.
UK Development Director for Nigeria, Cynthia Rowe, praised Kaduna’s progress in security and governance, saying the shift to “Amber” reflects improved safety and stronger institutions. She stressed that KaMAF would back Kaduna with concrete support in governance, health, education, and agriculture.
The decision is expected to boost investor confidence and attract more international development projects to the state, regarded as the gateway to Northern Nigeria.
