Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, arrived in Abuja, Nigeria on Friday to promote the Invictus Games, a initiative founded by Prince Harry to support the rehabilitation of wounded and sick service members and veterans.
The couple’s visit, their first to West Africa, was at the invitation of the Nigerian military.
During their stay, they will meet with wounded soldiers and their families, aiming to boost morale and wellbeing.
Nigerian officials have hailed the visit as a significant opportunity for the recovery of Nigerian soldiers, who have been fighting Boko Haram Islamic extremists and their factions since 2009.
The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014, provides wounded veterans and service members with the challenge of competing in sports events similar to the Paralympics. Nigeria participated in last year’s edition of the games.
The couple will attend basketball and volleyball matches and meet with local non-governmental organizations in Abuja and Lagos that receive their support.
Meghan will also co-host an event on women in leadership with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization.
The Nigerian military has emphasized the significance of the Invictus Games in aiding the recovery of thousands of personnel.
According to Abidemi Marquis, Director of Sports at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, “Eighty percent of our soldiers who have been involved in this recovery programme are getting better, their outlook on life is positive.”
The visit has generated excitement among Nigerians, who closely follow Meghan’s life and association with the British royal family.
The couple’s support for the Invictus Games and Nigerian soldiers is seen as a significant boost to the country’s efforts to support its wounded veterans.
