Senator Ali Ndume has described the refusal of visas to some members of the military delegation to Vancouver, as disrespectful, emphasizing that Nigerians must also learn to show respect in order to earn it.
The senator made the observation during an interview on Channels Television, on Monday, February 17, 2025.
Speaking during the interview, Sen. Ndume acknowledged the refusal of visas as a disrespectful act towards Nigeria, but emphasized that Nigerians must also learn to show respect in order to earn it.
He expressed disbelief over the situation, noting that Nigeria is a populous nation active in international affairs.
Sen. Ndume asserted that despite the incident, citizens should take pride in their country and suggested that there is no need for Nigerians to seek validation abroad, as they have much to offer within their own borders.
Read also: Sen Ndume calls for investigation into alleged USAID funding of Boko Haram
“There is no doubt that that is a kind of disrespect to Nigeria, but you have to respect yourself first. I can’t imagine it. How can the chief of defence staff of Nigeria, a country that is known and most populous and ranked top, and we have been contributing to international engagement, be denied visa? What they wanted to do was to go and attend an event.
“I can understand why the national security adviser was very angry. But for me, like I said, let’s be Nigerians. I don’t go anywhere and I am a Senator for the past 20 years.
“I don’t need to go anywhere. Nigeria is my country. We have everything. We don’t need to embarrass ourselves,’’ he said.
