China refutes AFN claim over visa delays, cites late Application by Nigerian Athletes

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Embassy of China in Nigeria has expressed regret over the absence of Nigerian athletes from the upcoming World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, but firmly rejected claims by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) that visa delays on the part of Chinese authorities were to blame.

In a statement issued to Peoples Daily on Saturday, the Embassy described the AFN’s version of events as “clearly inconsistent with the facts,” while reaffirming its commitment to fostering friendly exchanges between Nigeria and China, particularly in the field of sports.

According to the Chinese Embassy, it received a letter from Nigeria’s National Sports Commission on April 24 — two weeks before the event — requesting assistance in securing visas for the athletes. The letter itself was dated April 22.

“The Embassy immediately communicated with the Commission and guided it to prepare the relevant materials to expedite visa application,” the statement read.

The Chinese Visa Application Centre received the completed application documents on May 6. In response, the Embassy said it activated expedited procedures and issued the visas on May 8 — just two days later.

“The Embassy of China in Nigeria has always actively supported people-to-people and sports cooperation between the two countries,” it noted, emphasising that visa procedures were handled in an “efficient and professional manner.”

The statement also highlighted the general diplomatic protocol, pointing out that visa issuance is a matter of national sovereignty, requiring applicants to submit necessary documents in good time.

This clarification follows widespread Nigerian media reports quoting the AFN, which announced a withdrawal from the Guangzhou competition due to what it described as delays in visa issuance by Chinese authorities.

While the AFN has yet to respond to the Embassy’s account, the revelation raises questions about administrative lapses and communication breakdowns within Nigeria’s sports management structure.

The Guangzhou World Athletics Relays are scheduled to take place from 10 to 11 May 2025. Nigerian athletes will now miss a major opportunity to compete on the global stage — a loss both sporting and symbolic.