‘We Covertly Made Sure You Were Denied Visa’ – DSS DG Taunts CDS Musa Over Rejection

Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), has jokingly suggested that Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), was denied a Canadian visa because he underestimated him.

Ajayi made the remark while reacting to Musa’s comments at the inaugural annual lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja. Musa had recounted how he and other senior military officers were denied visas despite being invited for an official event in Canada.

“Every disappointment is a blessing,” Musa said. “Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event honoring our veterans who were injured in battle. Half of our team was granted visas, while the other half was denied. It is very disappointing.” He added that the incident underscored the need for Nigeria to be self-reliant and not taken for granted.

In response, Ajayi humorously claimed that the DSS had covertly ensured Musa’s visa application was rejected. “As much as I like General Musa, he underrated me. I have spent 35 years in this job, and for political appointments, I should be on my way out by April,” Ajayi said. “All I have learned is covertness—how to do things covertly. General Musa, you made a mistake with me.

“When we invited you to chair this program, you decided to apply for a Canadian visa. So, we covertly made sure you were denied. Next time, when you hear about DSS under leadership like mine, don’t underrate us. When you leave here, you can see me, and you will get your Canadian visa. We wanted you here, so you couldn’t be in Vancouver.”

Despite the joke, Ajayi praised Musa for his leadership and dedication, calling him an exceptional team player. He also referenced a story about former U.S. President George Bush to highlight the importance of appreciating security personnel for their sacrifices.