Emmanuel Daudu
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has strongly criticized the recent denial of visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation by Canadian authorities.
The delegation was en route to attend a significant event honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada when the refusal occurred.
Describing the incident as a serious affront to Nigeria’s national dignity and integrity, Matawalle emphasized that such treatment threatens the long-standing bilateral relationship between both nations.
“This is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a blatant disregard for Nigeria’s status on the global stage,” he stated. “We cannot allow our country to be treated with such levity.”
The Minister called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind the visa denial, stressing that Nigeria must respond decisively to safeguard its diplomatic reputation.
“We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, Nigeria must take a firm and assertive diplomatic stance,” Matawalle declared.
The refusal of visas to high-ranking military officials raises serious concerns about Canada’s approach to diplomatic engagements with Nigeria. While the specific reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident highlights ongoing bureaucratic and political obstacles faced by Nigerian officials in international affairs.
Matawalle reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding its dignity on the international stage, urging collective action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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