The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has expressed disappointment with the Canadian government for denying visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other top military officers.
Ribadu, slammed Canada on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, saying the visa snub was “disrespectful” and asserted that Canada “can go to hell.”
His vitriol came on the heels of Gen Musa comments on how he and some senior military officers were denied entry into Canada for an official engagement.
The CDS narrated how the delegation had been invited to an event in honour of war veterans but was left in the lurch after the embassy denied visas to some of its members.
The military chief said,“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 along with our team, but while half of us got visas, the other half was denied. It’s very disappointing,” Musa said
He described the development as a sober reminder for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty.
“This is a reminder that we must stand on our own, stand strong as a nation, and refuse to be taken for granted,” he added.
Reacting to the development, Ribadu commended the CDS for publicly addressing the issue, insisting that Nigeria must focus on building its own strength rather than seeking validation from foreign nations.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu declared.
“Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful, we are strong, and I agree with you—it is time to fix our country. This is yet another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria work.”
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