National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has criticized the Canadian government for denying visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers.
Speaking on Thursday at the inaugural annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, Ribadu described the visa refusal as “disrespectful” and stated that Canada “can go to hell.”
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His remarks followed General Musa’s account of how he and several senior officers were denied entry to Canada for an official event.
The Chief of Defence Staff explained that the delegation had been invited to an event honoring war veterans but faced uncertainty when some members were refused visas.
“Every disappointment is a blessing,” Musa said. “Yesterday, I was supposed to be in Canada for an event honoring our veterans—those injured in battle. We were invited with our team, but while half of us received visas, the other half was denied. It’s very disappointing.”
Musa called the incident a wake-up call for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty. “This is a reminder that we must stand on our own, stand strong as a nation, and refuse to be taken for granted,” he added.
In response, Ribadu praised the CDS for addressing the matter publicly, stressing that Nigeria must focus on building its strength instead of seeking approval from foreign nations. “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu said. “Although 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.”
