Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has condemned Canada’s refusal to grant visas to Nigeria’s top military leaders, calling it a “serious affront” to the nation’s dignity.
During an event in Abuja on Thursday, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu criticized the Canadian high commission for denying visas to Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and other army chiefs. The officials were scheduled to attend a Canada-hosted event honoring war veterans but were unable to travel due to the visa rejections.
The decision triggered mixed reactions, particularly on social media. However, on Friday, the Canadian high commission in Nigeria declined to comment on the matter.
In a statement on Saturday, Sunday Iyogun, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, relayed Matawalle’s disapproval, stressing that Nigeria should not remain passive. The minister called for an investigation into the visa denial and urged for an appropriate response if a satisfactory explanation is not provided.
“This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity,” Matawalle stated. “If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively.”
