Nigeria Breaks Ground for Invictus Centre: A New Era of Care for Wounded Heroes
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
In a historic move to enhance the welfare of Nigerian military personnel, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Invictus Centre in Abuja.
The state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize rehabilitation for wounded, injured, and sick service members, offering holistic recovery programs to address both physical and psychological challenges.
Addressing dignitaries, military officials, and international partners, General Musa underscored the significance of the Invictus Centre, emphasizing that it would serve as a “sanctuary of hope, healing, and empowerment” for Nigeria’s brave men and women in uniform.
“The military profession demands physical strength, mental resilience, and emotional fortitude. This centre will ensure that those who have sacrificed for our nation receive the support they need to heal, recover, and reintegrate into society with dignity,” he stated.
The Chief of Defence Staff said the Invictus Centre will be a world-class facility integrating advanced military medicine, psychological therapy, and rehabilitation programs. Strategically located for accessibility, it will serve not only military personnel from the Federal Capital Territory but also those from across Nigeria.
General Musa reaffirmed that the centre would collaborate with medical institutions, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to enhance support for veterans.
Expressing his gratitude, he acknowledged the unwavering support of the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Invictus Foundation, the project’s key partner.
“With the support of our partners, this centre will not just be a building but a beacon of resilience, where our heroes can rediscover their strengths and take charge of their futures,” he added.
Also speaking the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, described the establishment of the Centre as a landmark achievement in rehabilitating servicemen and fostering national unity through sports.
“It is both an honour and a privilege to stand here today as we gather to mark a significant milestone in the rehabilitation of our servicemen and the development of sports in Nigeria,” Badaru said.
“Today, we are not just breaking grounds for a building; we are laying the foundation for hope, dreams, future healing, and administration.”
“This initiative is aimed at strengthening the armed forces, ensuring that our heroes who face immense challenges on the battlefield and at home have access to world-class rehabilitation and wellness programs,” he said.
Badaru acknowledged the sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers, many of whom return with visible and invisible scars from years of service.
Also speaking Prince Harry Charles, Duke of Sussex, represented by David Wiseman applauds Nigeria’s Commitment to Invictus Spirit.
Prince Harry Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey with the Invictus Games, he recalled the nation’s debut at the Düsseldorf Games, where the Nigerian team secured two medals, including gold in powerlifting.
“Nigeria has demonstrated remarkable dedication to the Invictus spirit. This centre will stand as a testament to your commitment to wounded veterans, providing them with the hope, help, and happiness they deserve,” Prince Harry remarked.
In a symbolic gesture, he presented a special Invictus Games honour coin, featuring the Nigerian team, to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar, in recognition of Nigeria’s contributions to the Invictus movement.
The event also featured remarks from key figures, including representatives from the Ministry international diplomats, and members of the Nigerian sports community. Sports was highlighted as an integral part of the rehabilitation process, providing both physical and psychological benefits to wounded soldiers.
As construction begins on the Invictus Centre, General Musa reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the Armed Forces to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring the welfare of military personnel remains a top priority.
“As we break ground today, let us remember the words of the Invictus poem: ‘I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.’ This centre will embody that spirit and inspire generations to come.”
With this groundbreaking moment, Nigeria takes a bold step forward in championing the well-being of its military heroes, ensuring that their sacrifices are met with the highest standards of care, respect, and rehabilitation.
Nigeria Breaks Ground for Invictus Centre: A New Era of Care for Wounded Heroes