Prince Harry and Meghan embarks on a significant journey to Nigeria
Prince Harry and Meghan embark on significant journey to Nigeria. Stay updated on their visit and its impact
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarked on a significant journey to Nigeria, engaging in a three-day private visit to the West African nation. Their itinerary included meetings with injured soldiers and visits to local charitable organizations, as revealed by authorities.
This trip held special meaning as the Sussexes integrated Nigeria into the “Invictus community,” as stated by Air Vice-Marshal Abidemi Marquis, the director of sports for the Nigerian Defence Headquarters. Their first official engagement unfolded at a school in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, where Meghan expressed her affinity with the students, remarking, “I identify with all of you.”
At the Lightway Academy, where the event unfolded, students eagerly awaited the royal couple’s arrival, accompanied by lively dancing. The event marked the start of a two-day mental health summit organized by the GEANCO Foundation, which focuses on aiding girls and young women across Nigeria with menstrual health products and education.
As a gesture of appreciation, the couple received a traditional wooden mask and a collection of books about Nigerian heritage, further strengthening their bond with the country. Their visit was at the invitation of Christopher Musa, the chief of defense staff, who formally welcomed them at a meeting held at the defense headquarters in Abuja.
During the meeting, Prince Harry expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s acknowledgment of the transformative power of sports in rehabilitating injured or wounded individuals. He commended Nigeria’s dedication to the Invictus movement, emphasizing its role in changing and saving lives.
Meghan’s presence on the visit was particularly noteworthy, reflecting her personal connection to Nigeria revealed in a genealogy test in 2022. The announcement of the Sussexes’ visit sparked enthusiasm among the public, with many expressing admiration for the couple’s commitment to using their influence for positive change.
The itinerary for the visit included engagements focused on promoting the Invictus Games, raising awareness about mental health, and empowering women. Prince Harry, fresh from attending events marking the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games in London, joined Meghan in Nigeria for a packed schedule of activities.
Despite being a private visit, the Sussexes’ agenda encompassed visits to a military rehabilitation center and organizations dedicated to supporting veterans’ welfare. Additionally, Prince Harry participated in a sitting volleyball game with wounded veterans, while Meghan co-hosted a women’s leadership event with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the director-general of the World Trade Organization.
While the royal couple did not meet with Nigeria’s president officially, they engaged with the governors of Lagos and Kaduna State. The visit underscored the significance of bilateral relations and collaboration between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Nigeria’s military personnel confront significant challenges, including combating terrorism and criminality, particularly in the context of the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency. Prince Harry expressed his eagerness to visit a hospital supporting military personnel in Kaduna, demonstrating his commitment to understanding and supporting Nigeria’s security efforts.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters expressed eagerness to deepen its involvement in the Invictus Games and the broader Invictus community. Reflecting on Nigeria’s participation in the recent games in Germany, Prince Harry emphasized the goal of expanding opportunities and resources for Nigerian athletes.
The Invictus Games recovery program has had a profound impact on Nigerian soldiers, with many reporting improved self-esteem and mental health. Corporal Effiom Antigha, captain of Team Nigeria, highlighted the transformative effect of the games on his physical and mental well-being.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to Nigeria underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges and promoting positive change. Through their engagements, they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting veterans, raising awareness about mental health, and empowering marginalized communities.
Source: Adomonline.com
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