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Nigeria Breaks Ground for Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Partnership with Invictus Games Foundation

Nigeria Breaks Ground for Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Partnership with Invictus Games Foundation

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Nigeria Breaks Ground for Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Partnership with Invictus Games Foundation

Ayshatu S. Rabo

The Nigerian Armed Forces, in partnership with the Invictus Games Foundation, officially broke ground on the Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in the rehabilitation and recovery of wounded, injured, and sick service personnel. The historic event, held at a strategic location in the Federal Capital Territory, was attended by senior military officials, government representatives, members of the diplomatic community, and representatives of the Invictus Games Foundation, including David Wiseman, speaking on behalf of Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex.

*A Journey of Partnership and Resilience*

In his remarks, David Wiseman reflected on the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the Invictus Games Foundation, recalling his first visit to Nigeria in 2021 to explore the country’s potential inclusion in the Invictus community. He expressed pride in Nigeria’s subsequent participation in the 2023 Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, Germany, where the nation won two medals, including gold in powerlifting.

“The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were delighted to be invited to Nigeria by our gracious host today, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. It was during that historic visit that General Musa announced the intention to build the Armed Forces Invictus Centre. And here we are today, breaking ground and laying the first brick,” Wiseman said.

He emphasised that the centre would not only serve as a rehabilitation facility but also stand as a symbol of hope, healing, and resilience for Nigerian service personnel.

*A Commitment to Wounded Soldiers*

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, delivered an impassioned speech, highlighting the centre’s strategic importance in providing holistic recovery programs tailored to the needs of injured and sick military personnel.

“This occasion marks another significant step in our nation’s commitment to providing comprehensive care for our brave men and women who have endured physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty,” General Musa stated.

He explained that the Invictus Centre would not operate in isolation but in collaboration with existing military medical facilities, non-governmental organisations, and international bodies dedicated to veteran affairs. The location was strategically chosen for accessibility, ensuring that both military personnel and veterans outside Abuja can benefit from its services.

*Minister of Defence Pledges Support*

Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, commended the initiative, aligning it with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He described the centre as a crucial step towards improving sports rehabilitation, psychological healing, and overall well-being of Nigeria’s military personnel.

“This centre will not only be a place for physical rehabilitation but also for mental wellness and social reintegration. It is our commitment to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation’s peace and security,” the Minister remarked.

*Nigeria to Participate in Vancouver Invictus Games*

Wiseman also announced that Nigeria would be among the 23 nations participating in the upcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver, with the Nigerian team receiving training in Abuja under the guidance of Africa Unconquered. He expressed confidence that the new centre would produce generations of future competitors who would find strength, hope, and healing through adaptive sports.

*A Global Recognition for Nigeria’s Commitment*

In a gesture of appreciation, the Invictus Games Foundation presented a special honour coin to Nigeria, featuring the Nigerian Invictus team on one side and Corporal Dean Owen Chikwa on the other. The coin symbolises Nigeria’s commitment to advancing the Invictus spirit and supporting wounded veterans.

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As construction begins, the Armed Forces Invictus Centre is set to become a lasting legacy, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to the well-being of its service personnel and further strengthening its partnership with the global Invictus community.

Nigeria Breaks Ground for Armed Forces Invictus Centre in Partnership with Invictus Games Foundation

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