The Defence Headquarters has urged Nigerians to dismiss “the malicious allegations” and rally behind the armed forces in their efforts to strengthen national security and improve the welfare of servicemen and women.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, issued a statement on Monday refuting claims regarding the Nigerian military’s visa requests for participation in the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.
He called on Nigerians to show support for the officers, men, and women who have sustained various injuries while defending the nation, stressing the importance of accurate information at this time.
Gusau clarified that the Nigerian military had received an invitation to participate in the Invictus Games with a team consisting of three officers and 21 players, including the team’s physiotherapist.
He explained that the Invictus Games Foundation covered the team’s accommodation and feeding, along with those of other participating nations.
“However, in spite of our best efforts, only 14 members of the team, excluding the team leader, captain, and physiotherapist, were granted visas.
“Regrettably, seven of our athletes who had the potential to excel were denied visas, preventing them from participating in the Games.
“Notwithstanding this setback, our team’s outstanding performance earned Nigeria gold, silver, and bronze medals, proudly placing our nation and Africa on the global map of the Invictus Games.
“Furthermore, the participation of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, would have added mental strength to our troops.
“It is on record that the Chief of Defence Staff has initiated laudable efforts to boost the morale of our service personnel who risk their lives to protect our nation and its people.
“The Invictus Foundation Centre, which is the first in Africa and currently under construction, is part of this initiative to provide care and mental healing for our wounded personnel,” he stated.
