Alleged Visa Delays: Chinese Embassy Debunks AFN’s Statement

The Embassy of China in Nigeria has debunked a statement issued by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) that Nigeria withdrew from the Guangzhou World Athletics Relays scheduled to be held in China from May 10 to 11, 2025, following visa delays by the Chinese authorities.

The Embassy in a statement on Saturday said clearly that the position of the AFN was inconsistent with facts as the Embassy did its very best within the time frame to process visas for the athletes.

It said “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.”

It said further that the Embassy has always actively supported people-to-people and sports cooperation between the two countries, 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 added.