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Canada snubs Nigeria: Defence chief denied visa, NSA Ribadu says “They can go to hell”
DDM News
A diplomatic storm erupted after Canada denied visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and senior officers.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) reviled that the delegation was scheduled to attend a military veterans’ event in Canada to honor injured soldiers and war heroes.
Their travel plans were abruptly canceled, sparking outrage within Nigeria’s security and political circles.
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu condemned the decision, calling it “disrespectful” and stating that Canada “can go to hell.”
What led to the visa denial?
General Musa and his team were invited to Canada as part of military cooperation and international security engagements.
The trip aimed to strengthen Nigeria’s partnership with global allies and recognize the sacrifices of wounded Nigerian soldiers.
However, the Canadian High Commission in Abuja denied visas to key officers, including General Musa, without providing clear reasons.
Some junior officers received approvals, while high-ranking officials faced rejection, raising suspicions of political or diplomatic bias.
General Musa’s reaction: “Very disappointing”
Speaking at a security lecture in Abuja, General Musa expressed frustration over the unexpected visa denial.
“Every disappointment is a blessing,” he said while addressing the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS).
He confirmed that half of the delegation received visas, while the other half, including himself, was blocked from attending.
Musa described the situation as “very disappointing” and questioned why Nigeria’s military leaders faced such treatment.
Ribadu’s fiery response: “They can go to hell”
NSA Nuhu Ribadu reacted strongly, accusing Canada of undermining Nigeria’s military leadership.
He described the decision as an insult to Nigeria and its sovereignty.
“We cannot continue to tolerate this kind of disrespect,” Ribadu stated during a security briefing in Abuja.
“Canada can go to hell if they think they can embarrass our military leaders,” he declared.
His comments reflected growing frustration over how Nigerian officials are treated by Western nations.
Canada’s response: Silence and privacy claims
The Canadian High Commission issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the situation.
They declined to comment on individual visa applications, citing privacy regulations.
“Visa applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis,” the statement read.
This response failed to address concerns raised by Nigerian officials and security analysts.
Many critics accused Canada of playing politics with military relations.
Diplomatic implications: What happens next?
This incident could damage future military cooperation between Nigeria and Canada.
Nigeria is a key player in regional security efforts across West Africa.
Such diplomatic snubs could weaken intelligence-sharing, counterterrorism efforts, and peacekeeping missions.
Analysts believe Nigeria might reconsider its partnerships with nations that do not respect its sovereignty.
Some have called for Nigeria to review its own visa policies for Canadian officials.
Public reactions: A nation divided
Nigerians expressed mixed reactions to the visa denial and Ribadu’s remarks.
Some citizens supported the government’s tough stance, demanding respect from foreign countries.
Others urged diplomatic negotiations instead of public outbursts.
On social media, hashtags like #RespectNigeria and #VisaDenial trended as Nigerians debated the issue.
Some users suggested stricter visa policies for Canadian officials in retaliation.
Conclusion: A diplomatic wake-up call
The Canada-Nigeria visa standoff highlights deeper tensions in international relations.
It raises concerns about Nigeria’s global diplomatic influence and treatment of its officials abroad.
Whether this incident leads to further disputes or policy changes remains uncertain.
For now, General Musa stays in Nigeria while Canada faces backlash over its controversial decision.
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