The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has criticised the Canadian embassy for denying the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, and other top military officers visas.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), Ribadu, who did not hide his displeasure over the development, described it as disrespectful and painful.
His comments came in response to Musa’s revelation that he and other top military officials had been scheduled to attend an official event in Canada on Wednesday but were denied entry.
Musa explained that the event was organised to honour war veterans, describing the visa refusal as a stark reminder of the need for Nigeria to assert itself on the global stage.
“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honour our veterans, those that were injured during battles, and we were meant to be there,” he said.
“We were invited with our team. Half has gone and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing.”
Ribadu, in his response, commended the CDS for speaking out on the issue.
“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” the NSA said.
“Even though it’s painful, it’s disrespectful, but we are peaceful and strong and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.
“Yet, this is another reason we work hard to make Nigeria work.”
The NSA also lauded the CDS for his leadership in the fight against insecurity, noting that security agencies are working together across various regions of the country.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune