ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly condemned the Canadian government after visa denials prevented Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and other top military officials from attending a scheduled event in Canada.
Speaking at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies, AANISS, in Abuja on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Ribadu expressed frustration and anger over the incident, calling it a wake-up call for Nigeria to strengthen its global standing.
Visa Denial Sparks Diplomatic Tension
The controversy arose after Musa and other senior Nigerian military officials were invited to Canada for an event honouring war veterans.
However, only a portion of the delegation received visas, while the CDS and others were denied entry, disrupting their participation.
Musa described the situation as disappointing, saying their absence from the event was regrettable.
“Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honour our veterans, those that were injured during battles, and we were meant to be there,” Musa said.
“We were invited with our team. Half has gone, and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing.”
Ribadu: “Canada Can Go to Hell”
Reacting to Musa’s remarks, Ribadu did not hold back his criticism, suggesting that Canada’s decision was disrespectful and unacceptable.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu stated.
“Even though it’s painful, it’s disrespectful, but we are peaceful and strong. And I agree with you that it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we work hard to make Nigeria work.”
A Strained Relationship?
The visa denial has sparked questions over Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with Canada, a country that has traditionally maintained strong ties with African nations.
It remains unclear why Musa and other military officials were denied entry, but some analysts speculate that it could be linked to security concerns, bureaucratic delays, or diplomatic tensions.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian officials in securing international travel clearance despite the country’s significant role in regional security and counterterrorism efforts.
Neither the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria nor the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has publicly responded to the controversy.
However, diplomatic observers believe the issue could escalate if Nigeria formally protests the decision.
