Nigeria won’t tolerate disrespect – General Musa opens up on visa denial at Invictus Games

On Wednesday, February 19, General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), made it clear that Nigeria will not stand for any disrespect from other countries towards its citizens.

This strong statement came after a number of Nigerian military personnel were denied visas to attend the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.

General Musa said the Nigerian Armed Forces followed all the necessary steps to be part of the event, but most of the team members were turned away. He specifically mentioned the denial of visas to key members of the team, including the team captain, a doctor, and a physiotherapist.

“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?” General Musa questioned, showing his frustration.

He made it clear that Nigeria won’t accept this kind of disrespect and called for mutual respect between countries.

General Musa also praised the Nigerian soldiers who participated in the Games, highlighting their bravery and strength despite the challenges. “Your courage and determination have left an indelible mark. You are true embodiments of the Nigerian spirit—unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable,” he said.

Despite the visa issues, the Nigerian team still brought home six medals, including gold, silver, and bronze, making the country proud. The team, which was the only African country to compete, was welcomed back to Nigeria on Wednesday, February 19, by General Musa and top military officials at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kumzhi, the Director of Sports at the Defence Headquarters, shared that only 14 out of the 25 team members got their visas. He expressed his disappointment with the Canadian High Commission but was still proud of the team’s impressive performance.

“Despite the unfair treatment by the embassy, we came home with six medals during the games,” Kumzhi said.

The Invictus Games is an event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, giving them the chance to compete and showcase their strength. Nigeria was the first and only African country to participate in this special event. General Musa also confirmed that Nigeria would continue to compete in future Invictus Games, including the 2027 Games in Birmingham.