Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), has condemned the Canadian Embassy for denying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa and other top military officers visas for an official assignment.
Speaking on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, Ribadu did not hide his displeasure, stating that Canada “can go to hell” over the decision.
His reaction followed Musa’s revelation that he and his team were scheduled to travel to Canada on Wednesday to attend an event honoring war veterans, but half of the delegation was denied visas.
CDS Christopher Musa described the incident as disappointing but emphasized that it served as a reminder for Nigeria to stand strong as a nation.
“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 to Musa’s comments, Ribadu commended the CDS for openly addressing the issue and made it clear that Nigeria must focus on strengthening itself as a nation.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu said.
“Even though it’s painful, it’s disrespectful, but we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we work hard to make Nigeria work.”
The NSA also praised Musa’s leadership in the fight against insecurity, highlighting improved collaboration between security agencies in various parts of the country.
