Sen. Ali Ndume Speaks Out: Self-Respect Over National Disrespect in the Canada Visa Saga

Canada Denies Nigeria’s Defence Chief Visa: Sen. Ali Ndume’s Take on Self-Respect

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has addressed the recent incident where Canada’s High Commission denied visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials. The officials were scheduled to attend an event in Canada honoring war veterans but were unable to do so due to the visa denial.

In an interview on Channels Television’s “Sunday Politics,” Senator Ndume expressed that while the visa denial is “a kind of disrespect to Nigeria,” it also reflects on how Nigerian leaders present themselves internationally. He emphasized the importance of self-respect, suggesting that if Nigerian officials don’t accord themselves due respect, such incidents are likely to occur.

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu reacted strongly to the visa denial, expressing significant displeasure.

The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has acknowledged awareness of the media reports but, citing privacy reasons, declined to comment on specific visa applications.