Canada Issues Statement Amid Rising Concerns Over Nigeria’s Chief of Defence’s Visa Denial

The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has reacted to comments made by General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, about the Canadian embassy allegedly refusing him and other senior military personnel visas.

Senior military leaders, including General Musa, were reportedly denied visas the day before their scheduled Wednesday visit to Canada.

Musa described the unsatisfactory experience during his speech at the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies’ (AANISS) inaugural event in Abuja on Thursday.

“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday (Wednesday), I was supposed to be in Canada for an event honoring our veterans, particularly those injured in battle, but we were denied visas,” he stated.

Strong reactions followed the visa denial, including condemnation from Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), who brashly said that Canada “can go to hell” over the decision.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the interior minister, also condemned the action as disrespectful to Nigeria.

However, the Canadian High Commission said in a brief message published on its official X handle on Friday that it would not comment on the individuals’ visa applications due to privacy concerns.

“The High Commission of Canada in Nigeria is aware of media reports related to planned travel to Canada by senior officials.

“However, for privacy reasons, we are unable to provide any comment on the status of visa applications of specific individuals,” it read.