AfriqueCAN
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has refuted claims by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) that visa delays by Chinese authorities were responsible for Nigeria’s withdrawal from the Guangzhou World Athletics Relays scheduled for May 10–11, 2025.
In a statement released on Saturday, the embassy described AFN’s explanation as “inconsistent with the facts,” asserting that it had acted swiftly and efficiently in processing the visa requests once they were received.
According to the embassy, the National Sports Commission of Nigeria contacted the embassy on April 24 via a letter dated April 22, requesting assistance with visa processing for Nigerian athletes traveling to China for the international relay event.
“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 emphasised its long standing support for sports and people-to-people cooperation between Nigeria and China, reiterating that it has consistently facilitated visa processes for Nigerian citizens in a professional and efficient manner.
It also stressed that visa issuance is a matter of national sovereignty, and like all diplomatic missions, requires applicants to submit proper documentation and allow reasonable time for processing.
While expressing regret that Nigerian athletes were unable to participate in the global relay event, the embassy maintained that the AFN’s narrative did not reflect the actual sequence of events.
“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 embassy concluded.
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