National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has criticized the Canadian government for denying visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other top military officials.

Speaking on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies in Abuja, Ribadu labeled the visa refusal as “disrespectful” and declared that Canada “can go to hell.”

His comments followed General Musa’s revelation that he and some senior officers were denied entry into Canada despite being invited to an event honoring war veterans.

Musa expressed disappointment over the situation, describing it as a wake-up call for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty.

“This is a reminder that we must stand on our own, stand strong as a nation, and refuse to be taken for granted,” he stated.

Ribadu supported the CDS’s stance, urging Nigeria to focus on national strength rather than seeking validation from foreign countries.

“Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful, we are strong, and I agree with you—it is time to fix our country. This is yet another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria work,” Ribadu said.