Diplomatic Clash: FG Reacts To UK Travel Alert Over Northern Nigeria

The Federal Government has sought to reassure both Nigerians and foreign nationals of ongoing improvements in national security following a recent travel advisory issued by the United Kingdom.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warned its citizens against all travel to Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Katsina, and Zamfara states due to rising terrorism, kidnappings, and violent attacks. It also advised that travel to Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Plateau, Taraba, and parts of the Federal Capital Territory should be limited to essential purposes.

In response, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, told Punch on Sunday that the government is aware of security challenges in certain areas and is taking deliberate steps to address them.

Idris highlighted that President Bola Tinubu has recently restructured the nation’s security framework while increasing investments in military equipment, intelligence operations, and surveillance systems.

He added, “Our security challenges will soon be a thing of the past. We want to give assurance that we are steadily improving safety across our cities and communities. All foreign nationals in Nigeria can be guaranteed protection as we implement more effective security measures.”

Meanwhile, the Gombe State Government dismissed the UK advisory, calling the classification of the state as unsafe “unfounded and unfair.”

Ismaila Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs at Government House Gombe, said, “We are surprised and disappointed by this designation. Gombe State has consistently been rated by credible organisations and security agencies as one of the most peaceful and stable states in Nigeria.”

He added that there have been no recent incidents of insurgency, banditry, or major security threats in the state, questioning the criteria behind the UK’s assessment. Misilli urged Nigerians and international partners to disregard the advisory.

Similarly, the Kano State Government described the advisory as routine but not reflective of the current security situation.

Mustapha Muhammad, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, said, “The state government has intensified security measures and strengthened coordination with military and security agencies. Our forces are strategically deployed, especially along borders with Katsina, to contain threats and ensure the safety of our communities.”