‘Nigeria Will Not Tolerate Disrespect’, CDS Musa Fumes Over Visa Denial By Canada

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has expressed his strong displeasure over the recent visa denial saga involving him and other senior military officials, asserting that Nigeria will not tolerate disrespect from any country. General Musa emphasized that Nigerians deserve fair treatment on the global stage.

Speaking at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja on Wednesday, General Musa explained the circumstances surrounding the visa denial issue, specifically addressing the denial of visas to senior members of Nigeria’s military team, who were set to travel to Canada for the 2025 Invictus Games. Musa clarified that all the necessary protocols were followed and that the relevant Nigerian government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of State, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), were fully aware of the travel arrangements.

The controversy erupted when the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria denied visas to key members of the team, including the team captain, medical personnel, and a physiotherapist, despite meeting all the required criteria. The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, had previously criticized the Canadian High Commission over the incident, questioning the rationale behind the denial.

General Musa expressed frustration over the denial, stating, “We had an agreement, we were invited, the programme was sent to us, we followed our requirements, we followed the process.” He questioned the reasons behind the denial, noting that many critical members of the team, such as the team captain, the medical doctor, and the physiotherapist, were not granted visas.

“The question is, why were these people left out?” he said. Musa reiterated that Nigeria must not accept disrespect from any nation and expressed confidence that the federal government would address the situation appropriately.

“We deserve respect as Nigerians all over the world. We must never accommodate disrespect from anybody because we are a good country,” he declared.

In addition to addressing the visa issue, General Musa reaffirmed the military’s commitment to supporting wounded and retired personnel, ensuring they are not neglected after their service to the country. He emphasized that wounded soldiers must receive continuous support and efforts should be made to reintegrate them into society.

“As we celebrate the achievements of our team, let us also remember the sacrifices made by all of our ex-service members in line of their duties,” Musa said.

He further pledged his commitment to raising the morale of troops and ensuring that all soldiers, especially the wounded, are cared for and supported. “Whatever it takes to raise the morale of our troops, we will do it, whatever the cost is,” he vowed, adding that taking care of injured soldiers would inspire others to perform their best, knowing they will be cared for if injured.

General Musa also addressed critics who questioned the decision to send military personnel to such events. Dismissing these concerns as ignorant, he stressed the importance of supporting wounded soldiers and acknowledged the sacrifices made by many of them. He pointed out that other countries prioritize the welfare of their injured military personnel, and Nigeria should do the same.

“Those other countries that sent their own were not doing it just because they wanted to do it but because they knew the importance,” Musa remarked.

Despite the visa challenges, General Musa praised the Nigerian athletes who participated in the Invictus Games, calling them a source of national pride. He hailed their courage and determination, stating that their efforts had left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed their journey.

“For our indigenous guests who participated, you have made Nigeria proud. Your courage and determination have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have witnessed your journey. You are a true embodiment of the Indigenous spirit, unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable,” he concluded.