The Federal Government and former diplomats have strongly criticized Canada for denying visas to Nigeria’s top military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Musa, preventing them from attending an event honoring war veterans.
Speaking at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja on Thursday, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu expressed outrage over the decision, calling it “disrespectful” and declaring that Canada “can go to hell.”
Gen. Musa, who disclosed the incident, described it as a “wake-up call” for Nigeria to reinforce its sovereignty and resist being taken for granted by foreign nations.
“This is a reminder that we must stand on our own and refuse to be taken for granted,” Musa stated.
Diplomatic Fallout
Supporting Musa’s stance, Ribadu criticized Canada’s actions and urged Nigeria to focus on its internal strength rather than seeking external validation.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we must work hard to make Nigeria strong,” Ribadu declared.
A source at the Canadian High Commission, speaking anonymously, confirmed that an official response to the controversy would be issued on Friday.
Former Diplomats React
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Cameroon, Rasheed Akinkuolie, asserted that military chiefs typically hold diplomatic passports, and their visa applications should be processed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with a Note Verbale.
“It is inconceivable to deny visas to such officials. If it happens, Nigeria should reciprocate by delaying visa applications for Canadians,” Akinkuolie suggested.
He also recommended summoning the Canadian High Commissioner for an explanation and advised against including non-essential family members in official delegations.
Similarly, former Ambassador to Algeria, Mohammed Mabdul, labeled the visa denial as “highly undiplomatic,” urging the Canadian High Commission to reconsider its decision in the interest of bilateral relations.
Criticism of NSA’s Response
However, ex-Ambassador to the Philippines, Yemi Farounbi, criticized Ribadu’s reaction, describing his language as inappropriate for a diplomatic matter.
“The NSA did not handle the issue in the best possible way. Such matters should be referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has the expertise to engage diplomatically,” Farounbi stated.
He warned against ministries and agencies bypassing the Foreign Affairs Ministry in international matters, emphasizing the need for structured diplomatic engagement.
The controversy highlights tensions between Nigeria and Canada, with expectations that diplomatic dialogue will follow to prevent further strain in their relations.
