The United Kingdom Government has officially improved Kaduna State’s security rating from “red” to “amber” in its travel advisory, citing significant progress made under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani in tackling insecurity and promoting peace.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, by Ms. Cynthia Rowe, Head of UK Development Cooperation, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), during the Kaduna State Mutual Accountability Framework (K-MAF) Dialogue held in Kaduna.
According to Ms. Rowe, the upgrade reflects the improved security situation in Kaduna, which was previously listed as a high-risk, red-zone location due to frequent cases of kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes. She praised the efforts of the Kaduna State Government, saying the state had shown strong commitment to peace and development.
“Security is a key enabler of growth and development, and Kaduna has weathered periods of heightened security challenges,” she said. “Thanks to Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, there is real progress. We are pleased to announce Kaduna’s transition from red to amber in our travel advisory.”
She added that the UK Government remains committed to supporting Kaduna’s development, particularly in promoting peace, good governance, and economic growth.
To build on the momentum, Ms. Rowe announced that Kaduna State will now host the FCDO SPRiNG programme (Strengthening Peace, Resilience and Inclusive Governance). The SPRiNG initiative is aimed at addressing the drivers of conflict, promoting social cohesion, and supporting inclusive governance across communities affected by past insecurity.
“Through SPRiNG, we will provide tailored support to help Kaduna consolidate its peace gains and ensure that affected communities can thrive again,” she said.
Ms. Rowe also reiterated the UK’s interest in supporting economic growth in Kaduna through private sector investment, working closely with institutions like the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA) to create jobs and improve livelihoods.
“Our shared ambition with Kaduna State is to achieve economic growth that directly improves the lives of citizens,” she said.
In his keynote address, Governor Uba Sani expressed gratitude to the UK Government and described the collaboration with the FCDO as a model of partnership built on trust and shared vision.
“Our joint efforts have strengthened governance, driven key development initiatives, and improved living standards for the people of Kaduna,” Governor Sani said.
He highlighted the success of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (K-MAF), which has led to major gains in health, education, agriculture, and social development.
In the health sector, he noted that Kaduna had expanded access to quality care, reduced maternal and child mortality, and improved emergency response systems.
In education, the state has seen increased student enrolment, better school infrastructure, teacher training, and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people.
Governor Sani also spoke on agriculture, stating that the sector received over 10% of the 2025 state budget, the highest in recent years. He said the government is working closely with partners to support smallholder farmers, promote climate-smart agriculture, and improve the value chain for crops and livestock.
“These investments are designed to boost food security and create economic opportunities for our rural communities,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining progress and ensuring that Kaduna remains a safe, inclusive, and economically viable state.
The UK’s upgraded travel advisory is expected to boost investor confidence, tourism, and development partnerships in Kaduna. It also marks a significant recognition of Governor Uba Sani’s ongoing efforts to transform the state into a model of peace and progress in Northern Nigeria.
