In a bold display of national pride and diplomatic assertiveness, the National Democracy Stakeholders Group (NDSG) led a coalition of civil society organizations in a peaceful walk to the Canadian Embassy on Friday. The protest was sparked by the Canadian High Commission’s decision to deny visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials.
Dr. Kletsaint Akor, Chief Executive of NDSG, declared that the peaceful walk marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement. “We demand a clear explanation for the visa denial, which we consider an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty and dignity,” Dr. Akor stated.
Ambassador Ademario Emmanuel, Director General of the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA), has shed light on the possible reasons behind Canada’s denial of visas to top Nigerian officials. According to Emmanuel, the Canadian Embassy’s decision may be linked to Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts and exposure of terrorist sponsors.
Emmanuel recalled that the Canadian Embassy’s attitude changed after the Chief of Defence Staff’s interview, where he revealed that some terrorists and bandits were found with foreign currency. This revelation may have caused unease among Canadian authorities, leading to the visa denial.
What’s more striking is that the Chief of Defence Staff was initially invited to Canada, along with his veterans, to be honored for their outstanding counterterrorism record. However, the Canadian Embassy later denied him a visa without providing any explanation or apology.
This development raises questions about the diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Canada, particularly in the context of counterterrorism cooperation. Nigeria has been actively working to strengthen its counterterrorism strategies, including the National Counter Terrorism Centre’s efforts to mobilize a stronger response to terrorism and violent extremism .
The group presented a formal letter to the Canadian Embassy, outlining three key demands:
A formal apology to the Nigerian government and people for the perceived slight.
A commitment to strengthening bilateral relations based on mutual respect and trust.
A demand for a response from the Canadian High Commission within 14 days, failing which NDSG will engage Nigerian diplomatic channels.
The peaceful walk was marked by chants, banners, and a strong sense of national unity. As the protesters marched to the embassy, they emphasized the need for Nigeria to assert its dignity and respect in international relations.
The Canadian Embassy has yet to respond to the NDSG’s demands. As the diplomatic row unfolds, one thing is clear: Nigeria will no longer tolerate perceived disrespect from foreign nations.
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