Nigeria's Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has condemned Canada for denying a visa to Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, calling it disrespectful to Nigeria. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu also criticized the move, urging diplomatic action. The incident has sparked debate over Nigeria-Canada relations.
The Nigerian government has criticized Canada’s decision to deny a visa to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo expressed strong disapproval, calling it a sign of disrespect toward Nigeria. He questioned how ordinary Nigerians would be treated if a top-ranking official faced such rejection.
General Musa revealed that he and his team were denied visas to attend an event honoring war veterans in Canada. The minister argued that diplomatic back channels could have been used to address any concerns, instead of outright rejection. He emphasized the importance of reciprocity in international relations, urging Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take action.
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu also condemned Canada’s actions, making an even stronger statement by saying, “They can go to hell.” Ribadu stressed that the incident reinforces the need for Nigeria to strengthen itself and become more self-reliant.
The incident has sparked debate over diplomatic relations between the two nations, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over the perceived slight. The government has pledged to engage diplomatically to ensure mutual respect in future interactions.
