Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has launched a scathing attack on the Canadian Embassy for denying visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other top military officials.
Ribadu’s fiery remarks came in response to Musa’s revelation at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), held in Abuja on Thursday. Musa disclosed that he and his team were invited to Canada for an event honouring war veterans, but shockingly, half of the delegation was denied visas.
Describing the situation as “disappointing,” Musa expressed his frustration but maintained that the setback should serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria to assert its sovereignty and self-reliance.
“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honour our veterans—those injured in battle. We were invited with our team. Half of us have gone, while the rest were denied visas. It’s very disappointing,” Musa lamented.
Ribadu, however, did not hold back in his response, delivering a blistering rebuke against the Canadian authorities.
> “Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” the NSA declared.
Despite the setback, Ribadu stressed that Nigeria remains “peaceful and strong” and must not be deterred by such diplomatic snubs. He commended Musa for his steadfast leadership in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insecurity, assuring that security agencies are working together across the country to tackle the nation’s challenges.
The incident has reignited conversations about the treatment of Nigerian officials abroad and the need for a more assertive foreign policy approach. Many observers see this as a moment for Nigeria to reevaluate its diplomatic engagements and demand greater respect on the global stage.
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