It is disrespectful to Nigeria; however, self-respect must come first,” declared Sen Ndume regarding Canada’s refusal to grant a visa to the Chief of Defence Staff.

Senator Ali Ndume has addressed reports of the Canadian Embassy’s refusal to grant visas to Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa and other senior military personnel. Last week, General Musa revealed that although some members of his delegation obtained visas to attend a Canadian event honoring war veterans, his application, along with several others, was denied, leaving them unable to proceed.

This decision has ignited controversy: National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu vehemently criticized the embassy, while former National Human Rights Commission Chairman Chidi Odinkalu reproached both the military leadership and Ribadu, highlighting that Musa’s entourage comprised 70 visa applicants.

In response to the report, Ndume, appearing as a guest on Channels TV on the evening of February 16, remarked that the refusal was indeed disrespectful, yet emphasized the importance of self-respect among Nigerians.

“There is no doubt that this constitutes a form of disrespect toward Nigeria, but self-respect must come first. It is inconceivable to me. How can the Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria—a nation renowned for its population and esteemed ranking, with a history of contributing to international engagements—be denied a visa for attending an event?

I understand why the NSA was so incensed, but as I have stated, let us embrace our identity as Nigerians. I have not traveled elsewhere, and I have served as a Senator for the past 20 years. I find no need to go elsewhere. Nigeria is my homeland. We possess everything we need. We must avoid bringing embarrassment upon ourselves.”