The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has issued a strong statement asserting that Nigeria will not tolerate disrespect from any nation toward its citizens, emphasizing the country’s demand for global respect.
Speaking at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, General Musa addressed the recent visa denials faced by members of Nigeria’s team to the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada — an international sporting event for wounded soldiers initiated by the Duke of Sussex.
General Musa dismissed claims that the Nigerian Armed Forces were not officially invited to the games, clarifying that all necessary protocols were followed. He revealed that senior government officials, including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), were fully informed and involved in the preparation process.
“We followed all the necessary processes, but for reasons best known to them, most of our team members were denied visas. The team captain, the medical doctor, and the physiotherapist were all denied entry. Why?” he questioned.
The CDS commended the Federal Government for stepping in to address the issue, adding, “On the issue of the visa denial, it must be tackled on all fronts, and I am happy the Federal Government is taking up the matter.”
Despite the setback, Nigeria’s wounded soldiers made a triumphant return, securing six medals at the games. The 15-member team, which landed back in Nigeria on Wednesday, was welcomed by General Musa and top military officials at the Defence Headquarters.
“Your courage and determination have left an indelible mark. You are true embodiments of the Nigerian spirit—unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable,” General Musa praised, vowing that the military would continue to support injured personnel and ensure their full reintegration into civilian life.
Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kumzhi, Director of Sports at the Defence Headquarters, highlighted Nigeria’s trailblazing participation as the first and only African country in the Invictus Games. However, he expressed disappointment over the Canadian High Commission’s decision to deny visas to 11 of the 25-member team.
“Despite the unfair treatment by the embassy, we came home with six medals during the games,” Kumzhi stated.
The Invictus Games, launched in 2014 by the Duke of Sussex, is an international multi-sport event designed for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. Following his 2024 visit to Nigeria, the Duke continues to promote inclusivity and resilience among military veterans worldwide.
Nigeria is expected to participate in the next Invictus Games, scheduled for Birmingham in 2027.
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