Connect with us

society

Canada Owes an Apology: Visa Denial of Nigeria’s Defence Chief, Military Leaders Sparks Diplomatic Row By Olayemi Esan

Published

on

Canada Owes an Apology: Visa Denial of Nigeria’s Defence Chief, Military Leaders Sparks Diplomatic Row By Olayemi Esan

 

The Canadian government’s denial of visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other senior military officials has sparked controversy, and such a decision would be a significant diplomatic misstep.

It would be a breach of diplomatic protocol and courtesy if the Canadian government denied visas to General Musa and other officials without valid reasons, As a representative of Nigeria’s military, General Musa who has met with international counterparts, such as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr to discuss security cooperation and regional stability, it is disappointing to receive the news of the visa deny.

General Musa revealed this on Thursday during a maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, describing the visa denial as both embarrassing and disappointing, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) emphasized the need for Nigeria to strengthen its self-reliance

In his words, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event honoring our veterans—those injured in battle. We were invited alongside our team, but while half of the delegation was granted visas, the other half was denied. It’s very disappointing,” Musa stated.

He further remarked that the incident serves as a reminder for Nigeria to “stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and ensure it is no longer taken for granted.”No official reason for the visa denial has been provided by the Canadian government at this time.

Olayemi Esan, SpyeTV News Managing Director in her displeasure remarks noted that a visa denial without explanation or justification would undermine the trust and cooperation between Nigeria and Canada. The Canadian government needs to provide clear reasons for its decision and apologize if it was an error or an oversight.

She said the Canadian government should consider the potential consequences of their actions on bilateral relations and regional security cooperation. Apologizing for any mistakes made would be a step towards repairing the relationship and maintaining a positive diplomatic partnership.

Jamie Christoff the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria who recently visited Nigeria to promote trade and economic ties between the two countries as a matter of urgency wrote an apology letter to the office of the Chief of Defence Staff, Nigeria Armed Forces for this costly error by its embassy here in Nigeria.

It should be noted that, the Chief of Defence Staff. General Musa stressed that strengthening self-reliance in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach. By doing so, Nigeria will achieve the aim of diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil exports by developing other sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and services. It would promote local production and encourage local industries to produce goods and services, reducing reliance on imports.

By strengthening self-reliance in Nigeria to invest in infrastructure, and develop roads, railways, airports, and seaports to facilitate trade and commerce. It will foster entrepreneurship and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through training, funding, and mentorship programs. It will develop human capital. Invest in education, healthcare, and skills development to build a competent and productive workforce. It would enhance food security*: Promote agricultural development, irrigation, and rural infrastructure to ensure food self-sufficiency.

It encourages innovation and supports research and development, science, and technology to drive innovation and competitiveness. Strengthen institutions and ensure good governance, transparency, and accountability in institutions to attract investment and promote economic growth. Foster regional cooperation and collaborate with neighbouring countries to promote trade, investment, and economic integration.

This will develop a national strategy and create a comprehensive plan to achieve self-reliance, with clear goals, objectives, and timelines. By implementing these measures, Nigeria can strengthen its self-reliance, reduce dependence on external factors, and achieve sustainable economic growth and development.

*OLAYEMI ESAN IS AN AWARD-WINNING BROADCAST JOURNALIST AND A PUBLIC RELATIONS PRACTITIONER. SHE IS A MEMBER OF NIPR AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SPYE TV [SPYE COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED]. SHE CAN BE REACHED VIA 08035132961 OR [email protected]*

society

Dr. Chris Okafor invokes divine retribution upon individuals blackmailing the Grace Nation church

Published

on

Dr. Chris Okafor invokes divine retribution upon individuals blackmailing the Grace Nation church

… Affirming God’s omnipotence to unveil malicious schemes.

To be frank, the ability of Doris Ogala and her associates to withstand the arduous challenges set by Senior Pastor Dr. Chris Okafor of Grace Nation Global at the culmination of the Harvest of Babies 2026 conference, the church’s flagship event, continues to elude me.

It’s advisable not to offend a powerful spiritual leader like Prophet Chris Okafor to avoid potential consequences, as seen in the situation with Doris Ogala, who was rebuked by the prophet; can she rectify the situation through confession?

Insiders close to the man of God claim that despite relentless online bullying and blackmailing, the Generational Prophet remains resolute, stating that God’s power has been evident throughout the commission’s existence. The reason for this wonderful statement is found in the scriptures, “Upon this rock I shall build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail.” The more falsehoods are spread about the church and its leader, the more God elevates the church and propels him to greater heights, he asserted. He emphasized that blessings and fruitfulness are antidotes to curses, noting that God continues to bestow blessings upon the church, including miracles and the gift of children, which is one reason for the grand finale of the annual family liberation program, The Harvest of Babies.

However, the man of God issued a curse on each person speaking ill of the church, blackmailing, and uttering all sorts of falsehoods against the church, declaring that if they refused to repent within a few days, the earth would swallow them and their family members, stating that they would be of no use to themselves, their families, or society at large.

The spiritual leader cautions his followers to beware of such individuals including Doris Ogala who may taint their faith, and urges them to treat these persons as emissaries of the devil, avoiding them altogether.

Recall that the 2026 harvest of babies concluded with a remarkable birth of a miracle baby boy to a woman on the third day of the conference, accompanied by the dedication of several other miracle babies, all to the glory of God.

Christopher Sunday David writes from
Austria

Continue Reading

society

Together We Walk, Together We Secure”: Police Launch 2026 Walkathon In Abuja

Published

on

 

Together We Walk, Together We Secure”: Police Launch 2026 Walkathon In Abuja

 

The Nigeria Police Force has announced plans to host a walkathon in commemoration of the 2026 National Police Day, aimed at promoting unity, peace, and stronger community partnership.

The event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with participants expected to converge at the Force Headquarters Abuja by 6:00 a.m., where the walk will commence.

According to the organisers, the walkathon is designed to bring together members of the public, stakeholders, and security personnel in a show of solidarity and shared commitment to national security.

With the theme, “Together we walk, together we secure,” the initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between the police and citizens in maintaining peace and safety across the country.

Members of the public have been encouraged to participate in the exercise, which forms part of activities lined up to mark this year’s National Police Day celebration.

It is believed that the walkathon would not only foster closer ties between the police and the communities but also serve as a platform to promote awareness on collective responsibility in ensuring a safer society.

Together We Walk, Together We Secure”: Police Launch 2026 Walkathon In Abuja

Continue Reading

society

Habeeb Okunola Foundation Hosts Visually Impaired Students, Reaffirms Commitment to Educational Development

Published

on

Habeeb Okunola Foundation Hosts Visually Impaired Students, Reaffirms Commitment to Educational Development

 

 

The founder of the Habeeb Okunola Foundation, High Chief Dr. Habeeb Olalekan Okunola MON, OFR, has once again demonstrated his dedication to the welfare of the underprivileged. On March 30, 2026, he played host to a group of talented visually impaired students across tertiary institutions in Nigeria whom he is currently covering their tuition fees at the head office of CINI Holdings in Ikoyi, Lagos.

 

During the gathering, Okunola reaffirmed his commitment to using his God-given resources to uplift humanity through his foundation. According to him, true wealth is proven through empowerment, and supporting the education of visually impaired students ensures that knowledge remains accessible regardless of one’s circumstances.

 

Addressing the students directly, he said: “I am delighted to host you. I want you to know that my foundation will continue to cover your school fees and provide monthly stipends for your upkeep. Your disability does not diminish your right to education. With your talents, education becomes a platform to showcase your abilities. I am excited that instead of taking to the streets to engage in nefarious activities or begging, you have chosen to do something meaningful and sharpen your talents. Today is not just about support; it is about belief. We see you. We hear you. And we believe in your strength, your talent, and your future. Life may not always be easy. You may face moments where people doubt you or where the path feels difficult. But we want you to remember this: you are not alone. You matter. And you are capable of achieving more than you can even imagine right now.”

 

He further emphasized that he remains fully committed to consistently covering their tuition fees many of the students are enrolled in various tertiary institutions across the country while also ensuring their overall welfare.

“This support is not just financial,” he added. “It is a promise. A promise that for the rest of this year and beyond, you have the Habeeb Okunola Foundation standing with you, cheering you on, and investing in your journey. Use this opportunity well. Keep learning. Keep pushing. Keep believing in yourself, even on the hard days. One day, when you rise, when you succeed, remember to lift others just as you are being lifted today. We are proud of you. And we are excited to see all that you will become.”

 

Also present at the event was the founder of the Makemee Elegant Foundation, Mrs. Kehinde Adelaja, who expressed her gratitude to Chief Okunola for covering the students’ school fees and attending to their needs. She noted that if more wealthy individuals took on such responsibilities, Nigeria would be a better place.

 

“I am excited that you took time to host and dine with them,” she said. “This goes a long way in restoring hope. They did not choose to be in this situation, but seeing someone like you embrace them with love and care is rare. They deeply appreciate your kind gesture.”

 

During a lunch session held at his office, Chief Okunola further reiterated that philanthropy remains a core part of his lifestyle. He pledged to continue setting aside a portion of his business earnings to impact lives and bring relief to the downtrodden.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending