Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, have arrived in Nigeria to show their support for the Invictus Games, an event founded by Harry to aid in the rehabilitation of wounded and sick servicemembers and veterans. The couple's visit marks their first time in the West African nation, where they were invited by the military.
Upon their arrival in the capital city of Abuja, the royal couple is scheduled to meet with wounded soldiers and their families. This visit is seen as a gesture of solidarity to boost the morale and well-being of Nigerian soldiers who have been engaged in a 14-year battle against Islamic extremists.
The Invictus Games, initiated by Prince Harry in 2014, provides wounded veterans and servicemembers with the opportunity to participate in sports events akin to the Paralympics. Nigeria was among the countries that took part in last year's edition of the games.
During their stay, Prince Harry and Meghan will attend basketball and volleyball matches and engage with local non-governmental organizations in Abuja and Lagos that are supported by their initiatives. Meghan will also co-host an event on women in leadership alongside Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization.
The Nigerian military views the Invictus Games as a crucial platform for the recovery of its personnel who have been combating the Boko Haram Islamic extremists since 2009. The program has reportedly had a positive impact on the soldiers, with 80% showing signs of improvement in their personal self-esteem, mental health, and emotional well-being.
