DHQ speaks on defence chief’s Canada visa denial, calls for support

DDM News

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports about the alleged visa denial for Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), General Christopher Musa and other military personnel were invited to participate in the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.

In a statement on Monday, the DHQ urged Nigerians to disregard “malicious allegations” regarding the visa denial controversy.

The Defence Headquarters called on Nigerians to support the armed forces and appreciate their sacrifices for national security.

Reports surfaced that the Canadian government denied visas to General Musa and several members of Nigeria’s military contingent.

The visa denial raised concerns about diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Canada and its impact on military morale.

The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event founded by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex.

It provides wounded, injured, and sick military personnel the opportunity to compete and showcase their resilience through sports.

Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, clarified the situation in his official statement.

He confirmed that the Nigerian military received a formal invitation to participate in the event.

The Nigerian team consisted of three officers, 21 players, and a physiotherapist for the competition.

The Invictus Games Foundation covered their accommodation and feeding, just as it did for participants from other countries.

“Despite our best efforts, only 14 members of the team were granted visas,” Gusau said.

“The team leader, captain, and physiotherapist were not among those granted visas,” he added.

Seven athletes who had the potential to excel were also denied visas, preventing their participation.

The absence of key personnel affected morale, as their leadership was essential for team motivation.

The visa denial was seen as a setback for Nigeria’s participation in the event.

Despite these challenges, the Nigerian team performed exceptionally well at the Invictus Games.

They won gold, silver, and bronze medals in various sporting categories.

Their achievements placed Nigeria and Africa prominently on the global map of the Invictus Games.

Gusau praised their resilience, highlighting their determination to make the nation proud.

“Their performance was a testament to their courage and strength,” he said.

Beyond the competition, Nigeria’s participation aligns with broader efforts to rehabilitate wounded military personnel.

General Musa has been a strong advocate for the welfare of Nigerian servicemen and women.

He has championed initiatives aimed at boosting morale and providing medical and psychological support.

One such initiative is the Invictus Foundation Centre, currently under construction in Nigeria.

The centre will be the first of its kind in Africa for wounded personnel.

It aims to provide rehabilitation and mental healing for injured service members.

“The Chief of Defence Staff is committed to supporting our wounded warriors,” Gusau emphasized.

The visa denial has sparked discussions about diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Canada.

Some analysts question whether the denial was politically motivated or due to bureaucratic challenges.

The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria has not officially commented on the issue.

Observers suggest Nigeria should strengthen diplomatic ties to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Military personnel representing Nigeria internationally should receive the necessary support to ensure smooth participation.

Despite the controversy, the Defence Headquarters remains committed to its mission.

It has called on Nigerians to recognize and support the sacrifices of servicemen and women.

“The need for accurate information at this time cannot be overemphasized,” Gusau stated.

Nigerians are urged to stand with officers, men, and women who sustained injuries while serving the nation.

Their dedication and service should be a source of national pride for all Nigerians.

Although the visa denial was a setback, Nigeria’s remarkable achievements at the Invictus Games remain commendable.

Efforts to improve military welfare continue, and future diplomatic engagements should ensure smoother participation in global events.

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