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Nuhu Ribadu Condemns Canadian Embassy For Denying Visas To Nigeria’S Military Chiefs
The recent visa denial by the Canadian Embassy to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other top military officers has sparked outrage, with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, strongly condemning the action. Ribadu did not mince words, directing harsh criticism at the embassy for what he perceived as an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty and dignity.
The controversy erupted when General Musa disclosed during the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja that he and his team were invited to Canada for a high-profile event honoring war veterans. However, despite the official nature of the trip, half of the Nigerian delegation was denied visas, leaving many officials unable to attend the crucial engagement.
A Diplomatic Snub and a National Wake-Up Call
Expressing his frustration, General Musa described the incident as “disappointing” but also took it as an opportunity for reflection.
“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There was an event to honor our veterans, those who were injured during battles, and we were supposed to be there. We were officially invited with our team. Half have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing,” Musa stated, as reported by TheCable.
This visa denial is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader pattern where Nigerian officials, business leaders, and even academics face undue restrictions in securing visas for international engagements. Many see it as an unnecessary hindrance that undermines Nigeria’s standing on the global stage.
Ribadu’s Fiery Response
Nuhu Ribadu, known for his candid and forthright nature, did not hold back in his reaction to the situation. Addressing the matter with a strong rebuke, he commended General Musa for publicly revealing the ordeal and expressed his outright discontent with Canada’s actions.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu declared, making it clear that Nigeria would not tolerate disrespect from any foreign entity, regardless of its global stature.
He further emphasized that while such diplomatic snubs can be disheartening, Nigeria must continue to assert its sovereignty and remain resilient in the face of challenges. “Despite these disappointments, Nigeria remains peaceful, strong, and determined to forge ahead,” Ribadu asserted.
A Reflection on Nigeria’s International Relations
The visa denial has reignited discussions about the treatment of Nigerian officials and citizens in international diplomatic spaces. Many analysts argue that it underscores the need for Nigeria to reassess its relationships with countries that do not accord it due respect.
Some have pointed to the historical trend of Western nations imposing stringent visa restrictions on African countries, often under the pretext of security concerns. However, when it involves high-ranking officials on official duty, such actions are perceived as direct insults to a nation’s sovereignty.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Diplomatic Stance
This incident also raises questions about reciprocity in diplomatic engagements. Some Nigerian policymakers have suggested that the country should adopt a firmer stance in its visa policies toward foreign diplomats and officials from nations that frequently reject Nigerian visa applicants without just cause.
As one of Africa’s largest economies and most influential nations, Nigeria wields significant geopolitical weight. Many believe that it is time to leverage this influence to demand fair treatment from international partners.
Nigeria’s Military Leadership and Security Efforts
Beyond the diplomatic tensions, the visa denial incident also highlights the growing recognition of Nigeria’s military leadership in tackling internal security challenges. Ribadu took the opportunity to commend General Musa for his dedicated efforts in leading the nation’s defense forces against security threats.
He noted that Nigeria’s security agencies are intensifying their collaboration across different regions to address the multifaceted security issues facing the country. “The war against insecurity requires purposeful leadership, and General Musa has been exemplary in providing that,” Ribadu stated.
Despite challenges, including external snubs such as this one, Nigeria’s military and security forces continue to make significant strides in combating insurgency, terrorism, and banditry. The government remains committed to ensuring that the nation’s security infrastructure remains robust and responsive to emerging threats.
A Call for National Unity and Self-Reliance
For many Nigerians, this incident is yet another reminder of the importance of national self-reliance. While international partnerships and diplomatic engagements are crucial, Nigeria must build its institutions, develop its economy, and strengthen its global standing to reduce dependency on foreign nations.
Ribadu’s emphatic reaction is not just about visas; it is about respect, sovereignty, and the need for Nigeria to be treated as an equal partner on the global stage. The message is clear: Nigeria will not be undermined, and its leaders will continue to demand the dignity and recognition the country deserves.
As the dust settles on this diplomatic fallout, one thing remains certain—Nigeria’s resolve remains unshaken. Whether in security, diplomacy, or national development, the country will continue to chart its own path and assert its rightful place in the world.