…Says Denying CDS, Military Delegation Visas Affront
The Federal Government of Nigeria has vowed to respond “appropriately and assertively” to the Canadian government for denying visas to the nation’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers.
Musa, along with the military delegation, was said to have applied for entry into the country for an official engagement—one requiring them to support the nation’s war veterans in Canada—but they were denied.
THE WHISTLER reported how the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, reacted angrily and asked the Canadian government “to go to hell.”
The NSA acknowledged that some senior military officers were issued visas to attend the event. The situation prompted the Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle, to demand explanations from the Canadian government.
In a statement issued on Friday, signed by his Director of Information and Public Relations, Iyogun Sunday, and shared via the ministry’s X handle, Matawalle described the development as a ‘bureaucratic oversight.’
Matawalle added that it was a “serious affront to our national dignity and integrity” and could jeopardise the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Canada.
The statement read partly, “He (Matawalle) called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind this visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs.
“We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect.
“It is imperative that the Nigerian government take a firm diplomatic stance. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively.
“The denial of visas raises significant concerns regarding Canada’s treatment of Nigerian military officials and the overall state of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
“While the specific reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, this incident underscores the persistent bureaucratic and political challenges that Nigerian officials encounter in international engagements.
“He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its dignity and respect in the international arena, urging all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure that such incidents do not recur.”
CDS’ Visa Denial: Nigeria Demands Canada’s Explanation, Threatens Retaliation is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
Source: The Whistler
