The Defence Headquarters has urged Nigerians to disregard “the malicious allegations” and support the armed forces’ efforts to enhance national security and promote the welfare of servicemen and women.
The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau,
in a statement on Monday, faulted the allegations regarding Nigerian military’s
request for visas to attend the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.
He urged Nigerians to support the officers, men, and women
who sustained various degrees of injuries while protecting the nation.
According to him, the need for accurate information at this
time cannot be overemphasised.
Gusau said the Nigerian military received an invitation to
participate in the Invictus Games with its team, which comprised three officers
and 21 players, including the team’s physiotherapist.
He explained that the Invictus Games Foundation catered for
the team’s accommodation and feeding needs, 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 said. (NAN)
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