NIGERIA has criticised Canada for denying visas to senior military officials, including its Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, calling the move ‘disrespectful’ and damaging to diplomatic relations.
According to the BBC, General Musa revealed that half of his delegation was unable to travel for an official assignment in Canada on Wednesday due to visa rejections. The officials were scheduled to attend an event honouring war veterans, but only part of the group received the necessary travel permits.
‘We were invited along with our team, but while half of us got visas, the other half was denied,’ Gen Musa said. ‘It’s very disappointing.’
The Nigerian Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, strongly criticised the decision by Canadian immigration officials, suggesting that diplomatic channels should have been used if there were concerns about any delegates.
‘If that can happen to the Chief of Defence Staff, then I am worried for the average Nigerian,’ Tunji-Ojo said in a televised interview on Friday.
Canada defends visa policy changes
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria acknowledged the incident but declined to provide details, citing privacy reasons.
This development comes just two weeks after Canada introduced new regulations granting immigration officers explicit authority to cancel temporary resident documents under specific conditions. According to Canadian officials, the changes aim to bolster border security, maintain visa programme integrity, and protect public safety.
However, Nigerian authorities argue that these policies should not affect diplomatic and official visits.
Nigerian officials express outrage
The visa denials sparked strong reactions from senior Nigerian officials. Speaking at the same event on Thursday, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu condemned Canada’s actions, calling them ‘disrespectful.’
‘Canada can go to hell,’ Ribadu said, emphasising the need for Nigeria to assert its sovereignty and prevent such incidents from recurring.
Tunji-Ojo remained hopeful that the dispute would be resolved diplomatically to ensure mutual respect between the two nations.
‘This is yet another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria strong,’ Ribadu added.
With tensions rising, diplomatic discussions may be needed to restore smooth relations between Nigeria and Canada, particularly regarding future official delegations.
