The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and several Nigerian athletes were denied visas by Canadian authorities, preventing full participation in the Invictus Games in Vancouver.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, confirmed that the Nigerian military had received an official invitation to the global sporting event for wounded service personnel.
“Our team, comprising three officers and 21 athletes, including a physiotherapist, eagerly anticipated this opportunity. As the only African nation participating, the Invictus Games Foundation covered accommodation and feeding for our team, just like other nations,” the statement read.
However, Gusau lamented that despite extensive efforts, only 14 team members were granted visas, excluding the team leader, captain, and physiotherapist. Seven athletes with strong prospects for medals were also denied entry, impacting Nigeria’s full representation at the Games.
Nigeria Still Shines Despite Setback
Despite the visa denial, Nigeria’s contingent delivered an impressive performance, securing gold, silver, and bronze medals. The DHQ noted that General Musa’s presence would have further boosted the morale of troops.
The statement highlighted ongoing initiatives by the CDS to enhance the well-being of service members, including the construction of Africa’s first Invictus Foundation Centre for wounded personnel’s rehabilitation.
The DHQ urged the public to disregard “malicious allegations” regarding the incident and support efforts to improve the welfare of servicemen and women who risk their lives to defend the nation.
