By Hajara Usman
The Embassy of China in Nigeria has refuted allegations by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria ( AFN ) that visa issuance delay was responsible for Nigerian athletes’ inability to travel to China to attend the Guangzhou World Athletics Relays
On the contrary, the Chinese authorities implied that the late submission of documents might have caused the delay, while explaining the chronology of events that transpired, as well as stating their “facts and position”. The embassy stated that despite receiving the athletes’ documents on May 6, for an event starting on May 10, the visas were ready by May 8.
‘‘On April 24, the Embassy received a letter from the National Sports Commission of Nigeria (dated April 22) requesting assistance in processing visas for Nigerian athletes to participate in the event in China. The Embassy immediately communicated with the Commission and guided it to prepare the relevant materials so as to expedite visa application.
“On May 6, China Visa Application Centre received the relevant application materials submitted by the Nigerian athletes. The Embassy immediately activated the expedited procedure, provided the utmost assistance to the Nigerian applicants, and completed the visa issuance on May 8.”
The Embassy of China in Nigeria further stated that “ it has always actively supported people-to-people and sports cooperation between the two countries” as it repeatedly expressed its welcome for Nigerian athletes to participate in events in China, and consistently assisted Nigerian citizens in visa applications in an efficient and professional manner.
“It should be noted as well that visa issuance is a matter of national sovereignty, and all foreign embassies require applicants to provide the corresponding documents and materials, as well as allow sufficient time for the application process.
“We regret that the Nigerian athletes were unable to participate in the event in China this time, but the statement issued by the AFN is clearly inconsistent with the facts. The Embassy of China in Nigeria remains committed to promoting friendly exchanges between the Chinese and Nigerian peoples and stands ready to continue providing support and assistance for exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including sports.”, the statement said