Abuja, Nigeria ā National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu has strongly criticized the Canadian Embassy for allegedly denying visas to top Nigerian military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who were scheduled to attend an official event in Canada.
Describing the action as “disrespectful,” Ribadu reportedly condemned the decision, emphasizing that Nigeria would no longer tolerate such treatment from foreign governments. In a firm response, he was quoted as telling the Canadian authorities to “go to hell.”
The development has sparked reactions from prominent figures, including former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, who applauded Ribaduās stance. Fani-Kayode emphasized that Nigeria has earned its place on the global stage and should be treated with dignity.
āThe days of foreign governments kicking us in the teeth and getting away with it are long over,ā Fani-Kayode stated. He went on to suggest that Canada itself may be facing an uncertain future, particularly if former U.S. President Donald Trump pursues policies that could see Canada becoming the 51st state of America.
The visa denial has reignited discussions about diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Canada, with calls for fairer treatment of Nigerian officials in international engagements.
Neither the Canadian Embassy nor the Nigerian government has officially responded to the controversy at the time of this report.