The Canadian government has found itself on the receiving end of sharp criticism from Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, following its decision to deny visas to Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers. The visa refusal, which occurred ahead of an official engagement in Canada, has sparked outrage and reignited discussions about national sovereignty and respect for diplomatic protocols.
The controversy unfolded during the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, where General Musa recounted the frustrating experience. He revealed that he and a delegation of senior military officers had been invited to Canada to attend an event honoring war veterans—individuals who have sacrificed their lives or suffered injuries in service to their nations. However, the trip was abruptly derailed when the Canadian embassy denied visas to half of the delegation, leaving them stranded and humiliated.
“Every disappointment is a blessing,” General Musa remarked, reflecting on the incident. “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.”
The Chief of Defence Staff described the move as more than just an administrative oversight; it was a wake-up call for Nigeria to reassess its reliance on foreign validation and strengthen its own institutions. “This is a reminder that we must stand on our own, stand strong as a nation, and refuse to be taken for granted,” he emphasized.
Ribadu, known for his candid and no-nonsense approach, did not mince words in his response to the visa denial. Speaking passionately at the event, he commended General Musa for addressing the issue publicly and used the moment to underscore the importance of self-reliance and national pride. “Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas,” Ribadu declared. “They can go to hell.”
His fiery statement resonated deeply with those present, encapsulating the frustration many Nigerians feel when faced with perceived disrespect from foreign entities. While acknowledging the pain and humiliation caused by the visa snub, Ribadu urged Nigerians to channel their energy into building a stronger, more resilient nation. “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,” he added.
The incident has sparked widespread debate both within Nigeria and internationally. For many, the denial of visas to high-ranking military officials represents not only a breach of diplomatic etiquette but also a reflection of broader issues in Nigeria’s global standing. Critics argue that such actions undermine mutual respect and cooperation between nations, particularly when they involve invitations extended in good faith.
Supporters of Ribadu’s stance view the situation as an opportunity for Nigeria to assert its independence and reduce dependency on foreign nations. They contend that incidents like this highlight the need for Nigeria to invest in its own capabilities, whether in security, diplomacy, or economic development. By strengthening internal systems and fostering regional collaborations, the country can mitigate the impact of external impositions and build a more robust framework for international relations.
However, others caution against overreacting, suggesting that the visa denials may stem from procedural or policy-related reasons rather than outright hostility. Canada, like many countries, has stringent immigration policies that sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Nevertheless, the manner in which the decision was communicated—or lack thereof—has left a bitter taste, raising questions about transparency and fairness.
General Musa’s remarks about the incident serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers in defense of their nation. War veterans, regardless of nationality, deserve recognition and respect for their contributions to peace and stability. The fact that some members of the delegation were barred from attending an event meant to honor such heroes adds insult to injury and underscores the emotional toll of the visa refusal.
Beyond the immediate fallout, the episode has reignited conversations about Nigeria’s role on the global stage. As Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria wields significant influence, yet it often grapples with challenges related to perception and respect in international forums. Incidents like this highlight the delicate balance between asserting sovereignty and maintaining constructive relationships with foreign partners.
For now, the focus remains on how Nigeria will respond to the situation. While Ribadu’s comments reflect a firm stance against perceived disrespect, they also carry an implicit call to action. Strengthening institutions, enhancing diplomatic engagement, and prioritizing national interests are critical steps toward ensuring that similar incidents do not recur. Moreover, fostering unity and resilience at home can bolster Nigeria’s position abroad, enabling it to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics with confidence.
As the dust settles on this latest diplomatic spat, one thing is clear: Nigeria cannot afford to be complacent. Whether through improved governance, strategic partnerships, or increased investment in human capital, the path forward requires collective effort and unwavering determination. The message from Ribadu and General Musa is unequivocal—Nigeria must rise above external indignities and chart a course rooted in self-respect and progress.
In the end, the Canadian visa denial serves as both a challenge and an opportunity. It challenges Nigeria to confront its vulnerabilities and push for meaningful change. At the same time, it offers an opportunity to galvanize national pride and reaffirm the country’s commitment to standing tall on the world stage. As Ribadu aptly put it, “We are peaceful, we are strong, and it is time to fix our country.”
