Why Nigeria’s Defence Chief Christopher Musa, Others Were Denied Canada Visas

The Canadian Embassy reportedly denied visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and several senior military officers due to a diplomatic error.

KanyiDaily recalls that National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu had criticized Canada for refusing visas to General Musa and his delegation, calling the decision disrespectful.

According to The Nation, sources revealed that the affected officials submitted their visa applications without a Note Verbale—a formal diplomatic letter—from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is required for high-ranking government officials traveling on official duty.

A senior official, speaking anonymously, clarified that efforts were being made to correct the error, emphasizing that the issue was not a diplomatic dispute between Nigeria and Canada.

Explaining the situation the source said: “There was a diplomatic error on the part of desk officers who handled the CDS and others’ visa applications.

“There was no Note Verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs contrary to existing protocol for any trip by high-ranking government officials. Since, those going for the trip are top military chiefs.

“At this level, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ought to attach a Note Verbale indicating that the trip was genuine without security implications.”

He added that the Federal Government has since stepped in to resolve the issue, working to rectify the error and engage with Canadian authorities.

“The Federal Government is discussing with Canadian Embassy officials to salvage the situation. All I can tell you is that there is no diplomatic issue with Canada. We are only trying to get a few things right,” the source said.

KanyiDaily recalls that Nuhu Ribadu recently linked the current financial hardship in the country to the bankruptcy inherited by the former President, Muhammadu Buhari.