We followed due process in Canada visa application, says CDS

Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff (CDS), says the military followed all required procedures in its recent visa application to the Canadian high commission.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday while receiving the Nigeria contingent that won medals at the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada, Musa addressed concerns surrounding the country’s participation in the sporting event.

Last week, the CDS disclosed that the Canadian high commission denied visas to him and other senior military officers for the games.

Addressing the matter, he criticised those who spoke on the issue without fully understanding the circumstances.

“On the issue of the denial of the visa, we must not travel abroad. Nigeria is good enough for all of us,” NAN quoted him as saying.

Musa explained that Nigeria had been invited to the games and had followed all necessary procedures.

He noted that members of the armed forces “do not cut corners,” adding that the minister of foreign affairs and the national security adviser (NSA) were aware of the trip.

“We had an agreement, we were invited, a programme was sent, we followed our requirements and the process,” he added.

“But for reasons best known to them, most of the teams, like the team captain, the medical doctor, and the physiotherapist, were not given visas. And the question is why?

“Well, I’m happy that the federal government is also looking at that aspect.”

Musa stressed that Nigerians deserve respect globally and should not tolerate any form of disrespect.

He commended the Nigerian participants at the games for making the country proud.

“You are the true embodiment of the Invictus spirit, unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable,” he said.