The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has condemned the Canadian government for denying visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials.
The officials were supposed to attend an event in Canada honouring war veterans. However, only a portion of the delegation was granted visas leading to a strong backlash from Nigerian authorities.
Ribadu and Musa spoke on Thursday at the inaugural annual lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja. The event, attended by security experts and government officials, focused on national security challenges and international cooperation.
Addressing the visa denial, Ribadu described it as disrespectful. He said the denial reinforced the importance of making Nigeria self-sufficient, and as motivation for national progress.
Addressing Gen. Musa with him, Ribadu said, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria thrive. I commend you for providing purposeful leadership in the fight against insecurity.“
Gen Musa Takes A Philosophical Route
The military chief in his remark took a nuanced philosophical approach, saying of the visa denial that, “Every disappointment is a blessing.”
Narrating the circumstances, the military boss said, “Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honour 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. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”
While Canadian authorities did not specify publicly the reasons for the entry visa denial, some Western countries have often warned that Nigerian officials fingered for abuse of human rights or who aid election violence may be denied visas to enter their countries.
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