“Nigeria Must Never Accommodate Disrespect” – CDS Speaks on Canada Visa Denial

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has addressed the recent visa denial by the Canadian High Commission, stating that the military followed all required processes in their application. Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja, during a reception for the Armed Forces of Nigeria Contingent that won medals at the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada, Musa clarified that the military had met all the criteria and adhered to all protocols.

Musa explained that despite fulfilling all necessary requirements, several key members of the contingent, including the team captain, medical doctor, and physiotherapist, were denied visas. He expressed frustration over the unexplained denial of visas for critical personnel and stressed that the federal government was looking into the matter.

The CDS also took issue with the public’s reaction to Nigeria’s participation in the games, pointing out that many comments were based on ignorance. He underscored that Nigeria is a country of pride and does not need validation from abroad. Musa further emphasized that the military never takes shortcuts in its operations and that all the necessary channels were followed in the visa application process.

In his remarks, the CDS highlighted the importance of respecting Nigeria on the global stage and insisted that the country should not tolerate any form of disrespect. He commended the Nigerian contingent for their remarkable achievements at the games, describing them as the true embodiment of the invictus spirit: unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable.