The decision reflects renewed international confidence in the state’s security and reform efforts.
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 was placed on the UK’s “Red” list in 2022 following a surge in insecurity, including banditry and insurgent attacks that disrupted schools and displaced thousands of residents.
With the reclassification, British nationals can now travel to Kaduna with fewer restrictions, although the UK still advises caution in some rural areas.
In reaction, the Governor Uba Sani described the development as a “major vote of confidence” in Kaduna’s resilience and reform agenda. He highlighted progress made under his administration in healthcare, education, and agriculture.
“Through partnerships like this, we have reduced maternal and child mortality, improved access to primary healthcare, and upgraded hundreds of classrooms across the state. More than 10 per cent of our 2025 budget is already committed to boosting crop and livestock productivity. The UK’s decision only strengthens our resolve to deliver inclusive growth,” the governor said.
He added that reform initiatives such as the Local Government Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability programme, Issue-Based Projects, and Community Development Charters were deepening citizen participation and strengthening institutions.
Cynthia Rowe, the UK’s Development Director for Nigeria, said Kaduna’s upgrade was a recognition of the significant security and governance strides achieved in the past two years.
“Kaduna had been on the ‘Red’ list since 2022 because of security concerns. We are pleased to note the progress made, especially in rural areas, and the state’s renewed commitment to protecting lives and property.
This reclassification to the ‘Amber’ list reflects that progress. It also sends a strong signal to investors and development partners that Kaduna is open for business,” Rowe said.
She emphasised that the KaMAF agreement was aimed at driving concrete results in governance, education, health, and institutional reforms.
The lifting of travel restrictions is expected to boost investor confidence and attract more international development projects to Kaduna, widely regarded as the gateway to Northern Nigeria.
