The Canadian embassy’s suspension of operations in Abuja has caused distress among Nigerians.
The decision was announced via the embassy’s social media account and is believed to be linked to a fire that occurred on the premises, resulting in two fatalities.
The suspension affects visa and immigration services for those wishing to travel to or emigrate to Canada. Additionally, Canadians residing in Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Sao Tome and Principe will not receive services.
The Canadian government has also issued a travel advisory warning its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Nigeria due to the country’s unpredictable security situation and the risk of terrorism, crime, and kidnappings.
Many Nigerians, particularly those planning to visit Canada, have expressed their disappointment with the embassy’s decision.
Many social media users on X (Twitter) expressed their disappointment as they were planning to travel to Canada.
@Tonia_seph on X said, “Please o, we that are still planning (to travel)… God abeg.” @brightmorgan09 said, “Can someone confirm this news? I’m in the process of moving over there (Canada).”
“That’s a big problem for people that want to japa,” says @ify_ndubesti in a tweet.
On his part, @youngskidmusic said Canada was the only country youths were benefiting from.
“That’s the only country we are benefiting from as Nigeria youths. UK & Canada. God (please) make their embassy (not) shake.” the tweep said.
@Timiglow said things had fallen apart. “I heard the Canadian embassy already suspended their operations in Nigeria till further notice. Can you please confirm it? Things fall apart,” the tweep posted.
A Facebook user, MAZI TT, posted, “Canada (has) suspended visa processing for Nigeria following the fire outbreak at the embassy till further notice! (Please) pray because if Canada bursts (it is finished).”
@owolabiclassic on X partly said, “Nigerians planning to ‘Japa’ to Canada may need to have a rethink as the country’s High Commission has shut down its operations in Abuja.”
@elijahh53 wrote on X, “Canada is where we Nigerians benefit.” “They don’t want us youth to be traveling again! And it’s possible,” @ELEYDON1 also wrote on X.
#japa #Canada #visa #nigeria #naijatravel #diaspora
9News Nigeria/The Punch
