National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has criticized the Canadian government for refusing visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers.
Speaking on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, Ribadu described the visa denial as “disrespectful” and declared that Canada “can go to hell.”
His remarks followed General Musa’s revelation that he and his team were denied entry into Canada for an official engagement honoring war veterans.
“Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor 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 stated.
He viewed the incident as a wake-up call for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty, emphasizing the need for self-reliance.
Reacting to the situation, Ribadu praised Musa for speaking openly about the issue, stressing that Nigeria must prioritize its own development rather than seek 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.”