Visa denial: Nigeria won’t brook disrespect from any country, says DHQ

Wounded soldiers return from Invictus Games with medals
Nigeria will not tolerate any form of disrespect towards its citizens from foreign nations, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Christopher Musa, has said.

Speaking at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja, yesterday, Musa noted that Nigeria deserves respect on the global stage.

On a cheery note, some Nigerian soldiers, who were injured on the battlefield, have returned from the Invictus Games held in Vancouver, Canada, with medals.

The CDS, at the maiden yearly lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies, in Abuja, last Thursday, revealed that he would have been absent from the event had his visa application not been denied by the Canadian Embassy.

Musa stated that while half of the Nigerian team could travel, he and several others were denied entry visas.
Expressing displeasure over the visa issue, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, described the incident as disrespectful and painful, calling the bluff of Canada.

Dismissing speculations that the Armed Forces were not invited, Musa clarified that the military was invited, and all necessary protocols followed.

He explained that the visa application process involved key government officials, including ministers and the NSA, who had previously criticised the visa denials.

“On the issue of visa denial, it must be addressed at all levels. Nigeria is a great nation, and we deserve to be treated with respect. We received an official invitation, followed due process and complied with all requirements. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of State, the NSA – everyone was aware of this journey,” Musa stated.

The CDS revealed that key members of the Nigerian team, including the team captain, medical doctor and physiotherapist, were denied visas.

“For reasons best known to them, many crucial team members were not granted visas. The question remains, why? I am, however, pleased that the Federal Government is addressing the matter,” he added.

Musa also commended the Nigerian participants at the Invictus Games, praising their courage and resilience.

He said: “You have made Nigeria proud. Your determination and strength have left a lasting impact on everyone, who has witnessed your journey. You embody the spirit of resilience – unconquered, unbroken and unstoppable.”

Addressing concerns over the welfare of injured military personnel, Musa assured that they would not be abandoned.

“As we celebrate our team’s achievements, we must also acknowledge the sacrifices of our service members. We must ensure that resources are allocated for their well-being and reintegration into civilian life. As the CDS, I am committed to raising troop morale and ensuring that our personnel, especially those who have sustained injuries, receive the necessary support.

“Some people, out of ignorance, question why we send troops abroad. But if you see those who have sacrificed their limbs or even their lives, you will understand. Other countries recognise the importance of supporting their wounded veterans, and we must do the same. Education should help us think critically and deeply about these matters,” he said.

The team was welcomed at DHQ, yesterday, by the CDS, and other top military brass.

The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured and ill servicemen and women, both serving and veterans.

The Duke of Sussex was inspired to create the Invictus Games after visiting the Warrior Games in America in 2013. Ahead of the games, he visited Nigeria in 2024 and was hosted by the CDS.

Yesterday, the CDS hosted the Nigerian delegation to the games.

The Director of Sports, AVM Nanjuly Kumzhi, disclosed that the country was invited to the games.

According to him, Nigeria is the only African national team that participated in the games, adding that they would also participate in the next games billed for Birmingham in 2027.

The AVM, however, lamented the visa denial by the Canada High Commission in Abuja, saying out of 25-man team that was supposed to travel, only 14 were granted visas.