The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has reacted to media reports regarding the alleged visa denials of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other senior Nigerian military officials.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Canadian Embassy acknowledged the reports but refrained from commenting on the specifics of the visa applications, citing privacy concerns.
“The High Commission of Canada in Nigeria is aware of media reports related to planned travel by senior officials. However, for privacy reasons, we are unable to comment on the status of visa applications of specific individuals,”
Recall that the officials were invited to an event in Canada honouring war veterans. While some delegation members received visas, others were denied entry, leading to disappointment and frustration.
General Musa expressed his dismay over the visa refusal at Thursday’s maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja. He described Nigeria’s situation as a “wake-up call” and urged the nation 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 said.
However, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, while reacting to it, condemned the Canadian Embassy’s actions, describing the visa denial as “disrespectful,” adding that “Canada can go to hell.”
