National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has described as disrespectful the denial of visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officers by the Canadian Embassy.

Ribadu, speaking at the maiden yearly lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja said the country “can go to hell.” Ribadu stated that the visa denial was a reminder of why citizens must work hard to improve the country.

“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. ‘Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we remain peaceful and strong. I agree with you, it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria better,” he added.

Earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff said he would have been absent from the event if not for the visa denial. Musa stated that while half of the team had travelled, he and others were denied visas.

“Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was supposed to be in Canada for an event to honour our veterans, those injured in battle. We were invited with our team, but while half have gone, the rest of us were denied visas,” Musa said.

The DG, DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, on a lighter note, explained why the CDS was denied the visa, he said the defence chief had accepted to attend the event in his usual mannerism as a team player.

“But as much as I like General Musa, he underrated me. You know, I have spent 35 years on this job. But for a political appointment, I should be on my way out by April.

“And all I have learned is covertness, how to do things covertly. So, General Musa, you made a mistake with me. When we invited you for this programme to be the chairman, you now decided to go and apply for a Canadian visa.

“So, we covertly made sure we denied you. So, my dear General, next time when you hear of DSS, and under a leadership like mine, don’t underrate us. When you leave here, you can see me, you will get your Canadian visa. We wanted you to be here, so you couldn’t have been in Vancouver.”

General Musa in his remarks at the occasion said the gathering was not only a celebration of the institute’s legacy, but also a testament to the enduring relevance of its mission in an ever-evolving security landscape.

He added that the event created valuable opportunities for stakeholders to exchange ideas and insights essential for enhancing national security and development.

Musa said the lecture provided an opportunity to reflect on salient issues, share insights, and chart a path forward for sustainable peace and security. He added that it highlighted the importance of a comprehensive, all-encompassing ‘whole of government’ and ‘whole of society’ approach to addressing insecurity.