![]() |
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa |
Nigeria has strongly criticized Canada following the denial of visas to its Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officials. The officials were invited to attend an event in Canada honoring war veterans injured in combat. However, while some members of the delegation received visas, others, including General Musa, were denied entry, prompting outrage from Nigerian officials.
General Musa disclosed the incident during a security event in Abuja on February 13, describing the situation as “very disappointing.” He remarked, “We should have been there. Half of my team has already gone, but for reasons known only to them, the Canadian embassy denied us visas." The event was tied to the Invictus Games Foundation, which supports wounded soldiers globally.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu condemned Canada’s actions, calling them “disrespectful” and stating bluntly, “they can go to hell.” Ribadu praised General Musa for addressing the issue publicly and added, “Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong. This is another reason we must work harder to make Nigeria succeed."
The Nigerian government has expressed disappointment over what it perceives as an affront to its sovereignty. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also criticized the move as undermining diplomatic relations between the two nations. Meanwhile, Canada’s High Commission has declined to comment on the matter, citing privacy concerns.
Comments