Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has lauded Prince Harry for his efforts in aiding the mental and physical recovery of Nigeria’s active and retired military personnel through the establishment of the Invictus Games.
During a formal reception at Lagos House, Marina, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his gratitude to the Duke of Sussex and his spouse, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, for their visit on Sunday.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the royal couple arrived in Nigeria on May 10 to advocate for the Invictus Games, a Prince Harry initiative that supports the rehabilitation of injured and ill servicemen and veterans, including those from Nigeria, in their battle against terrorism.
NAN noted that Prince Harry and Meghan were greeted at Lagos House at 1:10 p.m., accompanied by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and his wife, Lilian.
The primary purpose of their visit is to promote the Invictus Games, established in 2014, which focuses on aiding military personnel and veterans in overcoming physical and mental health challenges, fostering a sense of community and boosting self-worth.
Governor Sanwo-Olu remarked on the importance of their work, particularly in addressing mental health concerns and providing support within both military and civilian contexts, amidst prevalent denial and stigma.
“We’re indeed happy for what they’re doing, especially for our military men on conversations around mental health and how they can manage people, who require support both in the military and private.
“Mental health issues are also something we all live around, with the denial, and the stigmatisation.”
He highlighted the significance of the royal couple’s visit to Nigeria, with Lagos being a key destination, and the enthusiasm of Nigerians for their innovative ideas.
He said, “We just want to assure you gentlemen of the press that for Prince Harry, this has been a very informative trip to the country, he has seen a lot, but he is still soaking in a whole lot.
“And part of the things that we’re hoping that he would take away is our diversity and the extent of how big our country is, how we continue to ensure that we live together in peace and harmony and the role Lagos plays,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Looking forward to future engagements with the couple, Governor Sanwo-Olu also mentioned Meghan’s Nigerian heritage, noting her elegant appearance in Aso-oke, a traditional Nigerian attire.
He concluded by expressing interest in hosting the Invictus Games in Nigeria, to showcase the nation’s competitive spirit in the event.
“Talking importantly about the Invictus Game, at what point can we have it in Nigeria, so that the Nigerian competitiveness can also be reflected in that game,” he concluded
