By Nkechi Eze
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, welcomed Team Nigeria on Wednesday, congratulating them on their impressive performance at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 in Canada. The team’s remarkable achievement of one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals has proudly positioned Nigeria and Africa on the global Invictus Games map.
Nigeria’s Armed Forces made history by becoming the first African team to join the Invictus Games Foundation, founded by Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex. This foundation is more than just a sporting event – it’s a testament to the bravery and resilience of service members who’ve faced physical and mental challenges while serving their country.
According to the CDS, the Invictus Games provides a platform that fosters camaraderie, unity, and a sense of belonging among participants from around the world. He praised the organizers for creating an event that strengthens international bonds and highlights the shared experiences of service members globally.
General Musa also commended the Nigerian team, saying their participation in the games reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence, even in the face of challenges. He lauded the brave participants, who have shown the world what it means to rise above adversity.
“Each of you have demonstrated the core values of the Nigerian Armed Forces: courage, discipline, and resilience. You have not only represented Nigeria on the global stage but have also become ambassadors of hope and perseverance. Your stories of triumph are a source of inspiration to millions, both home and abroad.” He said.
Notably, Nigeria’s participation in the Invictus Games was marked by impressive achievements, including one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals, despite facing visa denial challenges for some team members.
Director of Sports Defence Headquarters Quarters Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kenneth Kumzhi’s in his remarks said despite facing a major setback with visa denials, Team Nigeria successfully participated in over six events at the Invictus Games, including Wheelchair Basketball, Sitting Volleyball, Nordic Events, Indoor Rowing, and Swimming. Their outstanding performance earned Nigeria an impressive haul of one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals, proudly putting Nigeria and Africa on the global map of the Invictus Games.
However, Air Vice Marshal Kumzhi lamented that out of the 25-man team that applied for Canadian visas, only 14 were granted, excluding key team members like the team leader, physiotherapist, and captain. Unfortunately, seven athletes with great potential were denied visas, preventing them from participating in the Games they had prepared for. This setback left the team demoralized and in low spirits from the start.
“With all the discouragement, team Nigeria remained resolute to make history and today we are gathered here to welcome our heroes and celebrate. This shows that with dedication, courage, hard work and perseverance we can conquer any situation.” he said.
He emphasized that many of the men were not athletes before their injuries, but through the healing, rehabilitation, and reintegration process, they discovered sports and now proudly represent Nigeria.
“Remarkably, some of these men took part in challenging events that even able-bodied individuals might hesitate to attempt. Others tried entirely new activities for the first time, which significantly accelerated their recovery.” He said
The Director Sports thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, for granting them the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
