The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa on Wednesday received Team Nigeria after their outstanding performance at Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 in Canada which earned Nigeria one gold, one silver and 4 bronze medal, and proudly placed Nigeria and Africa on the global map of the Invictus Games.
Nigeria Armed Forces became the first African team ever to join the Invictus Games Foundation founded by Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, which is more than just a sporting event. It is a testament to the resilience, courage, and indomitable spirit of service members who have faced physical and mental challenges in the line of duty.
The CDS in his remarks commended the organizers of the Invictus Games for creating a platform that fosters camaraderie, unity, and a sense of belonging among participants from across the globe. He said this event has not only strengthened international bonds but has also highlighted the shared experiences of service members worldwide.
While honouring the participants of the CDS, General Musa lauded the brave participants, who have shown the world what it means to rise above adversity.
"Your participation in these games is a reflection of your unwavering commitment to excellence, even in the face of challenges.
"Each of you has 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 at home and abroad.
"The Invictus Games remind us of the transformative power of sports in the rehabilitation and recovery of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel. Through sports, we see the healing of minds, the rebuilding of confidence, and the restoration of purpose," he said
General Musa also thanked the Nigerian government, the Ministry of Defence, and all stakeholders who supported the team’s participation in the games.
"Your commitment to the welfare of our service members is deeply appreciated. To the families and loved ones of our participants, your unwavering support has been instrumental in their journey. You have stood by them through thick and thin, and today, we celebrate your sacrifices as well.
He urged all members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as they celebrate the achievements of the Nigerian team, to remember the sacrifices made by all service members in the line of duty. Let us continue to honour their service by providing the necessary support and resources to ensure their well-being and successful reintegration into civilian life.
"To our Invictus Games participants, you have made Nigeria proud. Your courage and determination have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have witnessed your journey. You are true embodiments of the Invictus spirit unconquered, unbroken, and unstoppable." he noted
Earlier in his remarks, Director of Sports (DHQ), Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kenneth Kumzhi revealed that despite the setback of visa denial, team Nigeria participated in over 6 events which include Wheelchair basketball, Sitting Volleyball, Nordic events, indoor rowing and swimming.
Air Vice Marshal Kumzhi said the team's outstanding performance earned Nigeria one gold, one silver and 4 bronze medals, proudly placing Nigeria and Africa on the global map of the Invictus Games.
He revealed that out of the 25 man team of both competitors and officials that applied for the Canadian visa, only 14 were granted visas, excluding the team leader, team physiotherapist, and team captain and regrettably, seven of the athletes who had the potential to excel were denied visas, preventing them from participating in the Games they had so prepared for.
Air Vice Marshal Kumzhi laments that from the onset, the team was demoralised and in low spirits at departure.
"In fact for some of the events, they were not going to be able to form complete teams however, through dint of courage, perseverance, hard work, dedication and team spirit, these soldiers re-strategized knowing their success was already diminished, formed teams and put up a great fight.
"Because I was not granted the visa, as the team leader, I stayed awake most of the days of the competition to watch and encourage our players and also to get information on the team's performance to the authorities.
"With all the discouragement, team Nigeria remained resolute to make history and today we are gathered here to welcome our heroes and celebrate. This goes to show that with dedication, courage, hard work and perseverance we can conquer any situation, he said
He stressed that some of these men we see here were never sportsmen before they were wounded, however, as part of the healing, rehabilitation and reintegration process, they were introduced to sports and today we have them representing Nigeria.
In fact, some participated in events that able-bodied men would have thought twice before engaging. Some participated in events they never knew for the first time. This has greatly hastened their healing process.
He thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, for granting them the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"We never lacked anything including our estacode on our way to Vancouver. We have through these Games travelled and made friends around the world. We are truly indebted to the Armed Force Nigeria, we without delay shall commence our training for Birmingham 2027 and by God's grace Abuja 2029." he said