The Defence Headquarters has asked Nigerians to ignore claims that visas were unfairly denied to military personnel set to participate in the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, stated on Monday that the Nigerian military received an invitation to the games with a team consisting of three officers and 21 athletes, including a physiotherapist.
While the Invictus Games Foundation covered accommodation and meals, only 14 members of the team received visas, News about Nigeria reports.
The team leader, captain and physiotherapist were among those denied entry.
Despite this, the Nigerian team performed well, winning gold, silver and bronze medals.
Gusau added that the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, would have further motivated the troops.
He also mentioned the ongoing construction of the Invictus Foundation Centre, the first in Africa, which aims to support wounded military personnel.
“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”, Gusau said.
