New Revelations From Canada’s Visa Snub On CDS

The recent visa denial to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officers by the Canadian government has sparked widespread reactions, with former Kaduna Senator Shehu Sani’s statement adding to the debate.

Sani, known for his outspoken views, commented on the incident via his X handle, stating, “I wanted to condemn Canada but when I heard the purpose of the trip and the number of people wey wan travel, my bodi come weak.” His remark, laced with satire, suggested dismay at the size of the delegation seeking entry.

His comment has since triggered a wave of reactions from Nigerians on social media, with opinions divided over whether the visa refusal was an insult to Nigeria or a justified decision by Canada.

Aminu Idah expressed concern over Nigeria’s sovereignty, arguing that regardless of the circumstances, the officials represented the country. “Whatever it is, the entourage represents Nigerians, not their persons. It should have been treated with cautioUn so as not to offend Nigeria’s sovereignty.”

However, Mezie Abia disagreed, stating that the incident was a personal issue rather than a national embarrassment. “The refusal of the Chief of Defence Staff an entry into Canada is in no way a disrespect to Nigeria. It is a personal loss to those involved. It doesn’t concern Nigeria and Nigerians.”

Others took a more critical stance. A user with the handle @alstacs pointed out that the visa denial was selective, with some members of the entourage still granted entry. “Unfortunately, they granted visas to the rest of the crew but the tops. So they didn’t help us prevent unnecessary journey and expenses by just focusing on the chiefs for denial.”

Another user, @LEXYtee_mark, suggested that the incident highlighted financial mismanagement. “A foreign country is teaching us how to manage our finances in a subtle way.”

Some, like @FloraAcetyra, questioned the necessity of the trip itself. “If the whole squad is packing bags for the same reason, then Canada might not even be the problem – it’s survival mode.”

On the other hand, @yisatijani viewed the decision as an affront to Nigeria’s military leadership, saying, “The CDS was our symbol of military personnel. We are going to tarnish the Canadian government’s image as well.”

Others, like @neoafrotalk, took a more neutral stance, acknowledging Canada’s right to refuse entry while advocating for diplomatic resolutions. “Canada, like Nigeria, has the right to deny anyone entry. Whatever reason they give is down to them, the same way Nigeria or any aggrieved country is allowed to react or retaliate in a peaceful manner that doesn’t threaten any country’s sovereignty.”

The visa denial has sparked debates about diplomatic relations, Nigeria’s internal governance, and the justification for large delegations on foreign trips. While some see it as a slight against Nigeria, others believe it is a wake-up call for introspection on the country’s diplomatic engagements and resource management.

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