Prince Harry Highlights Nigeria’s New Invictus Games…

Prince Harry’s Invictus Games celebrates the groundbreaking of the Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Nigeria, marking a significant step in veteran rehabilitation. The center represents Nigeria’s commitment to sports rehabilitation for wounded service members, with construction commencing in January 2025. The upcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver will further provide a platform for fostering support and recovery for injured veterans.

Prince Harry’s Invictus Games initiative has taken a significant step toward supporting injured service members. As he prepares for the upcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver, British Columbia, Nigeria has commenced construction of the Armed Forces Invictus Centre, a pioneering rehabilitation facility for veterans. Groundbreaking for the Abuja center occurred on January 31, 2025, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to the Invictus Games and the rehabilitation of its armed forces personnel.

Dominic Reid, the outgoing CEO of the Invictus Games Foundation, expressed pride in Nigeria’s adoption of the Invictus ethos. He emphasized that the introduction of sports rehabilitation in Nigeria is groundbreaking, noting that there was previously little understanding of rehabilitation practices. Reid articulated his pride in the international influence of the Invictus Games in supporting veterans’ recovery initiatives.

While visiting Nigeria in May 2024, Prince Harry praised the upcoming center’s role in redefining how injured service members are perceived. He stated, “Service personnel are not defined by their injuries,” affirming that the center symbolizes hope and recovery. Architect Kobina Banning highlighted that the center will serve as a healing space for veterans, reinforcing the commitment to support those who have served in the military.

As construction begins, Prince Harry emphasized the center’s importance within the global Invictus community, noting it expands the initiative’s impact into Africa. He recounted witnessing the profound healing effects of sports on individuals and families during his visit. Moreover, David Wiseman from the Invictus Games Foundation remarked on Nigeria’s dedication to recovery through sports, viewing the facility as an inspiring development for the African community.

Nigeria is set to participate in its second Invictus Games in Canada, following its debut in 2023. The upcoming games, scheduled from February 8 to February 16, will be the last for Reid as CEO, who reflects on the significant changes the organization has made in perceptions of disability. He pointed out a study indicating that 10% of participants felt their lives were saved due to the program, underscoring the impactful legacy of the Invictus Games.

The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, is an international sporting event aimed at wounded, injured, and sick military veterans. The games emphasize the therapeutic benefits of sports in rehabilitation and recovery. With the establishment of support centers like Nigeria’s Armed Forces Invictus Centre, the initiative aims to expand its reach, particularly within the African continent, fostering a culture of sports rehabilitation for veterans.

The groundbreaking of the Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Nigeria signifies a major advancement for the Invictus Games, enhancing rehabilitation support for injured veterans. With international leaders like Prince Harry and Dominic Reid advocating for these initiatives, the center will provide essential services and exemplify the positive influence of adaptive sports on recovery. The forthcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver marks a pivotal moment for participating nations, particularly Nigeria, as they reinforce their commitment to supporting their injured service members.

Original Source: people.com