The Defence Headquarters of Nigeria has issued a statement refuting allegations surrounding the circumstances of the Nigerian military’s participation in the Invictus Games held in Vancouver, Canada. The statement emphasized the importance of accurate information dissemination and called upon the public to support the armed forces in their efforts to strengthen national security and ensure the well-being of its personnel. The controversy stems from claims related to visa applications for the Nigerian team attending the Games.
The Defence Headquarters, through its Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, clarified the process of the team’s participation, stating that the Nigerian military received an official invitation to the Invictus Games. The contingent comprised three officers, 21 athletes, and a team physiotherapist. The Invictus Games Foundation, in line with its standard practice, covered the accommodation and feeding expenses for the Nigerian team, as they did for all participating nations. However, the process encountered a significant obstacle when visa approvals were not granted to the entire Nigerian team.
Despite the best efforts of the Nigerian military, only 14 members of the team—excluding key figures like the team leader, captain, and physiotherapist—were granted visas to enter Canada. This meant that seven athletes, who were considered to have strong potential to perform well at the Games, were unable to participate due to visa denials. This setback, although disappointing, did not deter the remaining members of the Nigerian team.
Notwithstanding the visa challenges and the reduced team size, the Nigerian athletes who were able to attend the Invictus Games demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, securing gold, silver, and bronze medals. Their performance not only brought honor to Nigeria but also highlighted the athletic prowess of Africa on the global stage of the Invictus Games. The statement emphasizes the pride the nation takes in their achievements.
The Defence Headquarters also addressed the issue of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa’s planned attendance. It was highlighted that Gen. Musa’s presence at the Games would have provided a significant morale boost to the participating Nigerian troops, many of whom have sustained injuries while serving their nation. The statement underscored Gen. Musa’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel, evidenced by initiatives like the construction of the Invictus Foundation Centre in Nigeria.
The Invictus Foundation Centre, currently under construction, is a crucial part of Gen. Musa’s vision to provide comprehensive care and mental health support for wounded military personnel. This center, notably the first of its kind in Africa, will serve as a testament to the nation’s commitment to the well-being of its servicemen and women. The statement concludes by reiterating the call for public trust and support for the armed forces and urging Nigerians to disregard malicious allegations that could undermine their efforts. The Defence Headquarters emphasized the importance of focusing on the positive achievements of the Nigerian team at the Invictus Games and the broader initiatives aimed at supporting the welfare of military personnel.
