The relationship between Nigeria and Canada may be heading toward a diplomatic rift after the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria denied visas to top military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa. The visa denial, which affected several senior military officers who were scheduled to attend an event in Canada, has sparked outrage, particularly among Nigerian officials.
Incident Overview:
General Musa, along with his team, had been invited to Canada to attend an event honoring war veterans, but only part of the delegation was granted visas. The CDS expressed his frustration, calling the situation disappointing and a reminder that Nigeria must stand strong as a nation. During an event, he shared his dismay over the refusal, stating:
“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honor our veterans… We were invited with our team. Half has gone and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing,” Musa said.
NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s Reaction:
In response to the incident, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, voiced strong disapproval at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja. Ribadu, addressing the CDS, remarked, “Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell.”
Despite his frustration, Ribadu emphasized that Nigeria would remain peaceful and strong, expressing his belief that this situation should further motivate the country to strengthen its internal systems. He said, “Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong. I agree with you – it is time to fix our country.”
Ribadu also commended General Musa for his leadership in combating insecurity and reassured the audience that security agencies in Nigeria are now collaborating effectively across regions.
Canada’s Response:
A senior public affairs officer at the Canadian High Commission, Oluwademilade Kosemani, was contacted for a statement on the matter. Kosemani confirmed that a response had been prepared but could not be released immediately due to pending approval. The embassy has promised to provide a public statement soon.
DSS Chief Calls for Community Defense:
Meanwhile, the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, has proposed a new strategy for combating insecurity in Nigeria, calling for communities to be armed and serve as the first line of defense. Ajayi argued that it is unrealistic for security agencies to be deployed to every community in the country and stressed that communities should work together to protect themselves from criminals. He cited the example of the community in Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi State, where residents successfully defended themselves against attackers.
Ajayi’s comments echo the need for proactive community involvement in national security and building a strong defense network at the grassroots level.
Concerns Over Politicization of Security:
Major General Garba Wahab (rtd), Director-General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, warned against the politicization of security issues and the weaponization of poverty by the Nigerian elite. Wahab also criticized the criminal justice system, claiming that the administration of justice encourages impunity, which undermines public trust in the system. He called for a clear timeframe for the resolution of criminal cases to promote transparency and accountability.
A Call for Innovation and Collaboration:
During the lecture, the Chairman of the Occasion, General Musa, emphasized the need for innovative thinking and collaboration to tackle Nigeria’s growing security threats. He urged security personnel to adapt to the evolving threat landscape and leverage technology, intelligence, and partnerships to stay ahead of adversaries.
The event provided an opportunity for security professionals to share insights and discuss strategies for ensuring sustainable peace and security across the country.
Addressing National Security Challenges:
The President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), Mike Ejiofor, acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria. He highlighted that these issues undermine national unity, economic growth, and development, creating significant social and humanitarian problems.
Keyphrase: Nigeria, Canada Diplomatic Tension, General Musa, National Security Adviser, Visa Denial
Meta Description: Tensions rise between Nigeria and Canada after the Canadian High Commission denied visas to Nigerian military officers, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa. NSA Ribadu reacts sharply.