Nigeria has strongly criticized Canada for denying visas to senior military officials, including the country’s Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa.
Musa revealed that the delegation was set to attend an event honoring Nigeria’s wounded army veterans but was partially blocked from traveling.
“Half of my team… they’ve already gone,” Musa stated during an event in Abuja on Thursday, expressing frustration over the decision.
He accused the Canadian embassy of refusing visas for reasons unknown, despite the official purpose of their visit being clear and diplomatic.
Canada’s embassy in Nigeria acknowledged awareness of the issue but declined to comment further, citing “privacy reasons” in a statement on X.
Musa did not specify the exact timing of the visa refusal, but it came after Canada’s recent announcement of stricter immigration measures.
On Wednesday, Canadian authorities introduced new regulations allowing officials to cancel temporary resident documents to strengthen border security and visa integrity.
Musa said the delegation had been scheduled to participate in the ongoing Invictus Winter Games in Vancouver, but half the team remained in Nigeria.
The international sporting event, dedicated to wounded military veterans, entered its fifth day on Friday, highlighting the significance of Nigeria’s intended presence.
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, condemned the decision, declaring, “Canada can go to hell,” a remark met with applause from the audience.
Interior Minister Tunji Olubunmi-Ojo also criticized Canada for showing a lack of respect but emphasized that diplomatic solutions would still be explored.
The incident has fueled tensions between the two nations, raising concerns about diplomatic relations and the treatment of Nigerian officials on the global stage.