Ribadu blasts Canada over military chiefs’ visa denial

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has condemned the Canadian government for its decision to deny visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials.

The officials were due to attend an event in Canada honouring war veterans, but only a portion of the delegation was granted visas, leading to strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Speaking on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, Ribadu expressed his displeasure, declaring that Canada “can go to hell.”

“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honour our veterans, those that were injured during battles, and we were meant to be there,” Musa said.

“We were invited with our team. Half has gone, and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing.”

Reacting, Ribadu commended Musa for publicly addressing the issue, describing the visa denial as ‘painful’ and ‘disrespectful.’

“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu declared.

“Even though it’s painful, it’s disrespectful, but we are peaceful and strong. I agree with you that it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we work hard to make Nigeria work.”

Ribadu also praised Musa for his leadership in tackling insecurity across the country, emphasising that security agencies are working together to address national security challenges.