Visa Denial: Ex-Nigerian Ambassador, military leaders slam Canada, demand reciprocity

A former Nigerian Defence Adviser to the United Nations and ex-Ambassador to South Africa has strongly criticized the Canadian Embassy for denying visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and his delegation.

The team was scheduled to attend a veterans’ event in Canada.

The move has sparked widespread condemnation from senior military figures, with a former Nigerian Defence Adviser to London describing the action as a “collective slap on Nigeria’s face.”

Similarly, a Force Commander of a United Nations peacekeeping mission has called for reciprocity, urging Nigerian authorities to respond in kind to what he termed a disrespectful act.

“Strange and Surprising” – Ex-Ambassador Reacts

The former Ambassador to South Africa expressed shock over the visa denial, emphasizing the long-standing military and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Canada.

“The Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria represents the highest level of military leadership, and when invited by his counterparts, should not be denied entry. This is really strange and surprising, considering the mutual respect and cooperation between our countries and militaries. Perhaps, there was a glitch in the visa issuance process,” he stated.

“A Slap on Our Face” – Ex-Defence Adviser to London

Echoing similar sentiments, a former Nigerian Defence Adviser to London decried the action, urging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intervene.

“It’s a slap on our collective face. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should take it up officially,” he insisted.

Meanwhile, a Force Commander of a United Nations Peacekeeping Operation called for strict reciprocal measures against Canada.

“Nigerian Immigration should start denying them visas,” he declared.

NSA Nuhu Ribadu Blasts Canada

The visa controversy gained public attention on Thursday, when General Musa disclosed the development during the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies.

Reacting to the incident, National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, condemned Canada’s actions in strong terms, expressing his frustration over the embassy’s treatment of General Musa.

“Let them go to hell!” Ribadu fumed, emphasizing that such incidents highlight the need for Nigerian leaders to work towards strengthening the country’s global standing.