Nigeria's Defence Chief Denied Visa: The Fallout of Canada's Decision

On Thursday, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu criticized the Canadian embassy for refusing visa applications from Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and other army chiefs.

While addressing the inaugural annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, Mr Ribadu expressed that Canada “can go to hell.”

The CDS had previously commented on this, recounting how he and other senior military officials were meant to be in Canada for an official task on Wednesday but were refused visas. The NSA was responding to these remarks.

Mr Musa stated that the event in Canada is focused on honoring war veterans. However, he pointed out that the denial serves as a clear reminder that Nigeria must “stand on its own, stand strong as a nation and should no longer be taken for granted.”

„Jede Enttäuschung ist ein Segen. I was supposed to be in Canada yesterday. “There’s an event to honour our veterans, those who were injured in battle, and we were supposed to attend,” Mr Musa said.

„Unsere Mannschaft und wir wurden eingeladen. One half has passed, while the other has been denied. He added, “It’s quite disappointing.”

Mr. Ribadu, visibly displeased after taking the microphone, praised the CDS for addressing the incident.

“Thank you for your bravery in stating that Canada denied you visas. “Let them go to hell,” said the NSA.

“Although it causes pain and is disrespectful, we remain peaceful and strong. I concur that the time has come to repair our country.

“This is yet another reason we put in so much effort to ensure Nigeria functions well,” he added.

Mr. Ribadu commended the CDS for delivering “purposeful leadership” in the fight against insecurity. He pointed out that all security agencies are working together in various regions of the country.

Mr. Ribadu, who was the inaugural chairman of Nigeria’s anti-corruption body, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission; and a former Assistant Inspector General of Police, was designated as the National Security Adviser by President Bola Tinubu in 2023.