Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly condemned Canada’s decision to deny visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials. The officials were invited to attend an event in Canada honoring war veterans, but only some members of the delegation were granted visas.

Musa expressed disappointment over the visa denial, but saw it as an opportunity for Nigeria to assert itself on the global stage. “Every disappointment is a blessing,” he said. “Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans, those who were injured during battles, and we were supposed to be there. We were invited with our team. Half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing”.

Ribadu reinforced the importance of making Nigeria self-sufficient, citing the incident as further motivation to work towards national progress. He commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security challenges and stressed the need for continued collaboration among security agencies. “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu said.

The visa denial has raised questions about Canada’s stance on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. The specific reasons for the refusal remain unclear, but the incident has highlighted the bureaucratic and political hurdles Nigerian officials face in international engagements.